World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is a global campaign coordinated by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA). Recognized as one of the largest collaborative initiatives of its kind, WBW is supported by major international organizations including the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF. The campaign aims to raise awareness of the numerous benefits of breastfeeding for infants, mothers, and communities.

Since its launch in 1991, WBW has been celebrated annually in approximately 120 countries. In 2016, it became officially aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting its relevance in advancing global health and development. While most countries observe WBW from August 1–7, others may commemorate it in May, October, or November, depending on national health priorities and calendar planning.

To learn more about how you can participate in WABA’s advocacy efforts, visit www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org.

GFCNI is proud to support and take part in World Breastfeeding Week with its own dedicated campaign. While we champion breastfeeding for every newborn, we place a strong focus on supporting the most vulnerable infants—preterm babies and newborns requiring intensive medical care. These infants often face additional challenges that can interfere with breastfeeding, making targeted support not only essential but lifesaving.

Through awareness, advocacy, and collaboration, we aim to help close gaps in breastfeeding support and ensure that every baby—regardless of their circumstances—has the opportunity to benefit from the power of breastmilk.

Preterm and hospitalized newborns can gain even greater health benefits from breastmilk than full-term babies. However, they are significantly less likely to be breastfed. This gap arises from a range of medical, emotional, and systemic challenges.

In the early days and weeks, many preterm babies are physically unable to breastfeed. They may struggle to coordinate sucking and swallowing, lack the strength to feed, or have underdeveloped digestive systems. These medical limitations often delay or complicate direct breastfeeding.

Mothers of preterm or hospitalized infants also face additional hurdles. Many lack access to accurate information and specialized support, leaving them uncertain about how to express, store, or provide breastmilk. Emotional stress—whether self-imposed or influenced by family and societal expectations—can further complicate the experience, making it more difficult to establish or sustain breastfeeding.

At GFCNI, we aim to raise awareness about the unique circumstances these mothers face. Their breastfeeding journey may look very different from that of mothers with full-term, healthy newborns—and that's okay. Acknowledging and respecting these differences is vital to providing meaningful support.

We believe that #BreastfeedingIsAJourney, and every mother deserves the encouragement to find the path that works best for her and her baby. To truly support breastfeeding for all, we must establish and uphold inclusive, accessible breastfeeding environments—in workplaces, communities, healthcare settings, public spaces, and especially in critical care areas like hospitals and neonatal units.