First Lady Calls for Greater Breastfeeding Support

First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has called for stronger support for breastfeeding mothers, urging families, workplaces, and communities to work together to ensure every child receives the healthiest possible start in life.

In a message shared on X to mark the beginning of World Breastfeeding Week, observed annually from 1 to 7 August, the First Lady paid tribute to mothers across the Maldives, describing breastfeeding as an act of love that goes far beyond providing nutrition.

“Every feed, every late night, and every moment of dedication is an act of love,” she said, adding that breastfeeding is a baby’s “very first shield,” helping build strong immunity, emotional security, and a foundation for lifelong health.

Highlighting recent progress in maternal and child welfare, Sajidha noted that the Maldives has introduced several measures over the past two years to better support breastfeeding mothers. These include extending paid nursing breaks for working mothers until their child reaches the age of two, safeguarding paid maternity leave, and expanding infant healthcare services across the country.

She stressed that mothers should make full use of these entitlements, including maternity leave and paid nursing breaks, to ensure their children receive the full benefits of breastfeeding during the crucial early stages of life.

The First Lady also emphasized that supporting breastfeeding is a shared responsibility, calling on families, employers, and communities to create an environment where mothers are able to breastfeed without unnecessary challenges.

“ It is a shared duty of all, families, workplaces, and communities alike to support mothers,” she said.

World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated globally every year to raise awareness of the importance of breastfeeding and to encourage policies and practices that support mothers and infants. The 2026 theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” highlights the need to build on proven initiatives that improve breastfeeding rates and maternal support systems.

The Maldives has continued to strengthen its policies on maternal and child health in recent years, with expanded workplace protections and healthcare services aimed at improving the well-being of both mothers and children. The First Lady’s message reinforces the government’s ongoing efforts to promote breastfeeding as a cornerstone of early childhood development and public health.