Ireland funds 900K euro expansion of Southeast Asia breastfeeding initiative

A nutrition programme supporting breastfeeding and infant health across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos has received a major funding boost. The Government of Ireland announced a new grant of 900,000 euros to expand the initiative, which already operates in 140 hospitals and health centres. The funding will help extend Vietnam's successful breastfeeding model to neighbouring countries.

The project, running since 2017, aims to improve nutrition for infants and young children through regional cooperation. It includes training health workers, setting up breast milk banks, and creating 'Excellent Breastfeeding Hospitals'. Vietnam's 'Centre of Excellence for Breastfeeding' model will now mentor officials in Cambodia and Laos.

Ireland's total contribution to the programme has reached 7.8 million euros. The latest grant was announced by Irish Minister of State Charlie McConalogue T.D. during a visit to Duc Giang General Hospital in Hanoi. The initiative works at both local and national levels, partnering with health ministries to strengthen policies and services for vulnerable groups.

The expanded programme will continue to focus on essential nutrition services for mothers and children. With Ireland's support, the project will scale up training and policy development across the three countries. The goal is to ensure more families benefit from improved breastfeeding practices and early nutrition interventions.