Doha:The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) has designated four health centers as “Baby-Friendly” under the “Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative,” marking a significant step in its ongoing efforts to enhance maternal and child health, promote breastfeeding, and create a supportive healthcare environment.

According to Qatar News Agency, the designation includes the Leabaib, Umm Slal, Al Thumama, and Muaither health centers, which operate under the Primary Health Care Corporation. This recognition reflects the centers’ commitment to adhering to the initiative’s standards as approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), ensuring the provision of necessary care and support for mothers and children.

The designation followed comprehensive evaluations conducted by MOPH specialists accredited by WHO to confirm compliance with the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative standards. With this latest recognition, the total number of healthcare facilities designated as “Baby-Friendly Hospitals” in Qatar has risen to nine, indicating the country’s progress in expanding this initiative and promoting practices that support breastfeeding and maternal and child care.

Dr. Salah Abdulla Alyafei, Director of the Health Promotion Department at MOPH, stated that these designations underscore the Ministry’s dedication to advancing maternal and child health and supporting breastfeeding. He reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to supporting healthcare facilities across both public and private sectors and enhancing the skills of healthcare providers, thereby facilitating the broader implementation of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative in Qatar.

The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative is a global program launched by WHO and UNICEF aimed at establishing healthcare systems that support breastfeeding.