The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency has called on pregnant women to register early for antenatal care, know their HIV status and enrol in Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) services as activities marking the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week commence.
The week-long campaign, observed from August 1 to 7, is aimed at promoting optimal breastfeeding practices and preventing the transmission of HIV from mothers to their babies.
In a statement issued in Awka, the Executive Secretary of ANSACA, Nkem Okeke, said women living with HIV can safely breastfeed and give birth to healthy children by adhering strictly to antiretroviral therapy (ART), attending regular medical appointments and following the advice of qualified healthcare professionals.
He stressed that consistent access to PMTCT services remains vital to eliminating new HIV infections among children and improving maternal and child health outcomes.
Okeke also commended the administration of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for sustained investments in primary healthcare, maternal and child health services, expanded access to quality healthcare and public health awareness programmes.
He encouraged expectant mothers and their families to utilise available maternal healthcare services, noting that early diagnosis, prompt treatment and exclusive breastfeeding under professional medical supervision are essential for safeguarding the health of both mother and child.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to working with healthcare providers and development partners to achieve an HIV-free generation in Anambra State through sustained awareness, prevention and access to quality healthcare services.
