Zamfara Approves Six-Month Maternity Leave to Promote Exclusive Breastfeeding
Zamfara State has approved a six-month maternity leave for female civil servants, aligning with public health goals to improve infant nutrition and maternal health.
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Zamfara State has approved a six-month maternity leave for female civil servants, a policy move aimed at promoting exclusive breastfeeding and improving maternal and child health outcomes. The decision, announced by the state government, underscores a strategic effort to support infant nutrition and reduce early weaning practices.
According to Mr Haidara, the approval reflects Governor Dauda Lawal’s commitment to strengthening exclusive breastfeeding initiatives across the state. The policy is designed to provide nursing mothers in the civil service sufficient time to breastfeed infants without the pressure of returning to work prematurely. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life is widely recognized as a critical factor in reducing infant mortality and enhancing immune system development.
The Zamfara government’s move aligns with broader public health recommendations promoted by health authorities, including the World Health Organization, which advocates for six months of exclusive breastfeeding. The approval is expected to positively impact maternal and child health indicators in the state, particularly in rural and underserved communities where access to nutritional support remains a challenge. The policy was reported by Premium Times and Peoples Gazette, with both outlets confirming its implementation for female civil servants.