Health Ministry honors Baby-Friendly hospitals - kuwaitTimes

Kuwait City, Kuwait Jul 12, 2026 ALN: The Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi, held a ceremony on Saturday to honor hospitals that have achieved or renewed their Baby-Friendly Hospital accreditation, a significant milestone in promoting breastfeeding and maternal health. Among the noteworthy recognitions was Al-Jahra Hospital, which was awarded the IBCLC Care Award 2026. This accolade underscores the hospital's dedication to adhering to international best practices in breastfeeding support, as well as its commitment to maternal and child healthcare.

The event was organized by the Nutrition and Food Department in collaboration with the National Breastfeeding Support Committee, reflecting a concerted effort by the Kuwaiti government to enhance health services for mothers and children. The ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Health, including Undersecretary Sheikh Dr. Salman Khalifa Al-Sabah and Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health Affairs Dr. Al-Mundhir Al-Hasawi, highlighting the importance of this initiative at the highest levels of health governance.

In a statement during the ceremony, Sheikh Dr. Salman emphasized that the recognition of these hospitals is a testament to the Ministry of Health's ongoing commitment to improving maternal and child health services. He noted that fostering a supportive environment for breastfeeding is essential, as it is linked to a myriad of health benefits for both mothers and infants. Sheikh Dr. Salman elaborated that the implementation of internationally recognized standards and best practices not only enhances the quality and efficiency of healthcare services but also promotes an integrated healthcare culture across Kuwait's health institutions. This, in turn, benefits families and communities, ultimately leading to a more sustainable healthcare system.

Dr. Mona Al-Sumaiei, the coordinator of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative in Kuwait, provided insights into the program's progress since its inception in 1998. She highlighted that Kuwait has made significant strides in promoting breastfeeding within healthcare facilities, which is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of newborns. Notably, Al-Adan Hospital has successfully renewed its Baby-Friendly Hospital accreditation for the fifth consecutive time, demonstrating a long-term commitment to these standards. Taiba Hospital, on the other hand, achieved its fourth renewal, further indicating the growing recognition of the importance of breastfeeding support in healthcare settings.

Additionally, Al-Farwaniya Hospital received its Baby-Friendly Hospital accreditation for the first time, marking a significant achievement for the facility and contributing to the overall improvement of maternal and child health services in the region.

Al-Jahra Hospital's receipt of the IBCLC Care Award 2026 places it alongside other prestigious institutions such as Al-Adan Hospital, Maternity Hospital, and Al-Farwaniya Hospital, which have previously earned this internationally recognized distinction. The IBCLC Care Award is a reflection of a hospital's commitment to providing evidence-based care and support for breastfeeding mothers, ensuring that they receive the best possible assistance during their critical postpartum period.

Dr. Al-Sumaiei also referenced the results from the 2025 Nutritional Surveillance Program, which showcased the positive impact of these initiatives on breastfeeding practices in Kuwait. The program reported that the rate of breastfeeding initiated within the first hour after birth had risen to an impressive 94 percent, indicating that more mothers are receiving immediate support to begin breastfeeding. Furthermore, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months has increased to 33 percent, reflecting a growing awareness and acceptance of breastfeeding as the optimal feeding method for infants during their early months.

These statistics are not merely numbers; they represent the success of Kuwait's national efforts to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes. The rise in breastfeeding rates can be attributed to various factors, including increased education and support for mothers, the establishment of breastfeeding-friendly policies in hospitals, and the active involvement of healthcare providers in promoting breastfeeding as a vital component of infant nutrition.

The recognition of these hospitals and the improvements in breastfeeding rates carry significant implications for public health in Kuwait. Breastfeeding is known to provide numerous health benefits for both mothers and babies, including enhanced immunity for infants, reduced risk of chronic diseases for mothers, and fostering a strong mother-child bond. By prioritizing breastfeeding support, healthcare institutions contribute to the long-term health of the population, potentially reducing healthcare costs associated with preventable diseases and conditions linked to inadequate infant nutrition.

Moreover, the commitment to implementing the highest international healthcare standards is a critical aspect of Kuwait's broader health strategy. As the country continues to evolve its healthcare policies, the emphasis on maternal and child health will remain a priority, ensuring that future generations receive the best possible start in life. This approach aligns with global health initiatives aimed at promoting breastfeeding as a cornerstone of public health, reflecting Kuwait's dedication to improving health outcomes and quality of life for its citizens.

As Kuwait moves forward, the continued recognition of Baby-Friendly Hospitals and adherence to international standards will play a crucial role in shaping the future of maternal and child healthcare in the country. With ongoing support from the Ministry of Health and collaboration with various stakeholders, Kuwait is poised to make further advancements in this vital area of public health, ultimately benefiting families and communities across the nation.