Health professionals have emphasised the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of an infant's life, as recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).

This practice is essential for ensuring children grow up healthy in both body and mind.

WHO and UNICEF recommend that infants initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth and be exclusively breastfed for the first six months.

During this period, no other foods or liquids, including water, should be provided.

Infants should be breastfed on demand, both day and night, to promote their overall health.

At the Exclusive Breastfeeding Day celebration held in Kumasi, Midwifery Officer Eunice Boaduwah Wiafe of the Maternal and Child Health Hospital, speaking at the event organised in collaboration with the Cocoa Processing Company, stressed the significance of exclusive breastfeeding.

She highlighted that failing to adhere to this practice can lead to infections and other diseases in children.

Ms. Wiafe emphasised that Exclusive breastfeeding is crucial for the healthy growth of children and also helps in reducing healthcare costs.

She urged mothers to prioritise exclusive breastfeeding for the benefit of their children and themselves.

Several mothers at the event shared positive experiences with exclusive breastfeeding, reinforcing the benefits highlighted by health experts.

Alfred Mensah, the Regional Representative of the Cocoa Processing Company, explained their collaboration with the hospital for the celebration.

He highlighted the benefits of lactating mothers consuming cocoa products, which can enhance the overall health and well-being of both mothers and their children.