WHO Uganda Opens Breastfeeding Room to Support Working Mothers and Child Health

Breastfeeding is more than a personal choice—it is widely recognised as a public health investment. Breast milk builds stronger immune systems, reduces childhood illnesses, and supports lifelong health outcomes, thereby reducing strain on health systems. Against this backdrop, the World Health Organization (WHO) Uganda country office has taken a significant step by establishing a dedicated breastfeeding space for staff and visitors, reinforcing its commitment to family-friendly policies, gender inclusion, and child health.

A Policy That Reflects a Promise

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Christopher Chikombero, Operations Officer at WHO Uganda, explained the broader significance of the initiative:

“The breastfeeding room is a small gesture with a big impact here at the country office. It shows that our workplace truly cares about family-friendly policies.”

The move is part of WHO’s alignment with global health recommendations from WHO and UNICEF, which call for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside complementary foods for up to two years and beyond.

Addressing a Daily Challenge for Working Mothers

For many working mothers, maintaining exclusive breastfeeding while balancing professional responsibilities remains a daunting challenge. Workplace environments often lack facilities that support breastfeeding, leaving women to choose between career advancement and their child’s health.

The new WHO Uganda breastfeeding space directly responds to this gap by offering:

• Privacy and comfort for mothers to express and store breast milk

• A quiet and hygienic environment to breastfeed during working hours

• Reduced stress and improved work-life balance for mothers returning from maternity leave

Dr. Solome Okware, Surveillance Officer at WHO Uganda, expressed her appreciation:

“Having a dedicated breastfeeding room at office is such an incredible resource. It’s a quiet, clean, and private space where I can express milk comfortably. It helps me balance work and motherhood without stress.”

Supporting Mothers, Strengthening Communities

The impact of such initiatives extends beyond the workplace. By enabling mothers to continue breastfeeding, organizations directly contribute to healthier children, more resilient families, and stronger communities.

Ms. Maria Mugisa, Logistics Assistant at WHO Uganda, shared her personal experience:

“Returning to work after maternity leave was smoother because I knew I had a safe space to continue breastfeeding. As a working mother, I feel seen, valued, and supported.”

Her testimony reflects the broader benefits of such supportive policies—retaining female staff, enhancing employee morale, and fostering workplace equality.

A Catalyst for Global Change

WHO Uganda’s breastfeeding space is part of a growing global movement to promote breastfeeding-friendly workplaces across all sectors, regardless of contract type. The initiative underscores that no woman should be forced to choose between her career and her child’s health.

Workplace breastfeeding support is increasingly recognised as a key component of:

• Health equity, by ensuring all children have access to optimal nutrition

• Gender inclusion, by empowering women to pursue careers without compromising family responsibilities

• Sustainable development, as healthier children and supported families contribute to long-term social and economic progress

More Than a Room—A Reflection of Values

At WHO Uganda, the breastfeeding space is described as “more than a room.” It represents a commitment to health equity, a recognition of women’s contributions to both the workforce and family, and a step toward a more compassionate future.

By fostering an environment where work and motherhood can coexist seamlessly, WHO Uganda is setting a precedent for other organizations in the region and beyond. The initiative not only supports women and children but also strengthens public health systems and contributes to sustainable development goals.