In Fiji, only 40 percent of mothers engage in exclusive breastfeeding, significantly lower than the global target of 80 percent. Experts have identified workplace environments as a significant barrier to improving this figure. Kriti Prasad, the Acting Manager of the National Food and Nutrition Center, highlights that despite aligning Fiji’s standards with guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, creating a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers remains a considerable challenge.
One of the major issues identified is the stress prevalent in many workplaces and the insufficient prioritization of maternal needs. The Ministry’s Healthy Workplace Policy aims to tackle these obstacles by providing mental health support alongside necessary accommodations for breastfeeding mothers. “We are trying to have our workplaces address breastfeeding support, including creating crash rooms within the workplaces, which will help mothers breastfeed their babies exclusively,” Prasad explained.
Fiji is aiming for 100 percent exclusive breastfeeding, with at least 80 percent needed to adhere to global standards. Some mothers report requiring additional support due to biological challenges that complicate the breastfeeding process. Penjani Kamudoni, UNICEF’s Pacific Nutrition Manager, shared that the organization is collaborating with the Health Ministry to ensure health facilities adhere to essential clinical practices that support breastfeeding. He emphasized the importance of management approaches within health facilities that include supportive measures for new mothers.
Prasad concludes that enhancing breastfeeding rates in Fiji requires transformative workplace policies, supportive community frameworks, and a recognition of the unique challenges faced by mothers. This proactive approach reflects a commitment to improving maternal health and child nutrition in the region, fostering healthier futures for both mothers and children alike.