Sharjah 24: Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Honourary President of Breastfeeding Friends Society of the Health Promotion Department at the Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA) in Sharjah, has emphasised that ongoing and future research on the role of breastfeeding will be a key motivator for global governments to develop targeted community awareness programmes and pro-breastfeeding policies, which will be particularly useful for working mothers.

Bodour Al Qasimi made these remarks at the 21st anniversary celebrations held virtually by the Breastfeeding Friends Society. The event, held under the patronage of Bodour Al Qasimi, was attended by Eng. Khawla Abdel Aziz Al Noman, Chairperson of the Breastfeeding Friends Society, managers of institutions, entity’s board members, sponsors, partners and female volunteers.
 
Bodour Al Qasimi noted that the significance of this millennia-old practice that symbolises life, nourishment and the parent–child bond has been proved by both science and history, adding that breastfeeding offers a strong foundation for healthy children and close-knit families.     

On her part, Eng. Khawla said: “We host this annual ceremony to highlight our commitment to fostering healthy lifestyle practices in our community and improve public health, particularly of mothers and babies. Our goals and efforts are guided by the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairperson of SCFA. I proudly share that around 17,365 community members have benefited from our virtual initiatives.” 

The anniversary celebrations included the graduation of 15 trainees from the Breastfeeding Counselor Programme, and the honouring of sponsors, supporters and volunteers for their countless contributions to the Society’s mission of encouraging good health practices and supporting the wellbeing of families.