Only 40 percent of mothers in Fiji engage in exclusive breastfeeding, which is significantly lower than the global target of 80 percent. Experts point to workplace challenges as a key barrier to improving these numbers. Kriti Prasad, the Acting National Food and Nutrition Center Manager, emphasizes that although Fiji adheres to the guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, creating a supportive environment for mothers remains difficult.
Prasad highlights that stressful work environments and insufficient prioritization of maternal needs continue to obstruct progress in breastfeeding practices. To combat these issues, the Ministry of Health has introduced a Healthy Workplace Policy aimed at providing mental health support alongside accommodations for breastfeeding.
As part of this initiative, efforts are being made to establish breastfeeding facilities, such as crash rooms, within workplaces, enabling mothers to breastfeed their babies with ease. Fiji has set an ambitious goal to achieve 100 percent exclusive breastfeeding, recognizing that a minimum of 80 percent is essential to meet global benchmarks. Some mothers have expressed the need for additional support due to biological challenges encountered during lactation.
UNICEF Pacific Nutrition Manager Penjani Kamudoni has stated that the organization is collaborating with the Health Ministry to ensure that health facilities implement best practices that facilitate breastfeeding. He notes that when health facilities and management practices support new mothers effectively, it fosters a better environment for breastfeeding.
Prasad insists that enhancing breastfeeding rates in Fiji will require progressive policies, workplace transformations, and community involvement to create an environment that uplifts and supports mothers. The commitment to improved breastfeeding practices reflects a growing awareness of maternal and infant health and aims to align Fiji with global health standards.
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