Kibabii University in Bungoma County has taken a major step to support health and inclusiveness for its staff, students as well as community with the launch of a lactation centre. The center was officially opened by its Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Ipara Odeo in a ceremony that was attended by senior university management, staff, as well as student representatives.
Importance of Breastfeeding Highlighted
Speaking during the launch at the University grounds, Prof. Odeo mentioned he had been waiting for this time when the lactation centre would be officially open to help Kibabii University Community.
“Proper lactation offers numerous significant benefits for the family,” Prof. Odeo explained. According to the professor, Insufficient lactation is known to negatively impact a mother’s mental state, which in turn may potentially affect their work performance due to constant worry about their babies.”
Dedicated Space for Breastfeeding Mothers
Prof. Odeo underscored the need for a comfortable and private space for breastfeeding, both at work and at home. He expressed his gratitude to the Office of the Registrar, Administration, and Human Resources, led by Dr. Ruth Mitalo, for initiating this project.
“This initiative not only ensures the university’s adherence to legal requirements but also provides much-needed comfort for breastfeeding mothers during their working hours,” Prof. Odeo said.
University Committed to Continuous Improvement
Prof Donald Siamba, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (DVC) of Administration, Finance and Development expressed his gratitude to the Vice Chancellor for backing this project until its finalization. He praised the center as a space for mothers to build strong bonds with their babies while offering a comfortable environment for breastfeeding. Prof. Siamba reiterated the university’s commitment to further enhancing the center by adding more resting areas and improving confidentiality measures.
Personal Experiences Shared
Prof. Franklin Wabwoba, the Acting DVC for Academics and Students Affairs, shared his personal experiences as a new parent before lactation facilities were available. He echoed the center’s significance for all breastfeeding mothers at the university.
Prof. Joshua Abuya, Acting DVC for Planning, Partnerships, Research, and Innovation, echoed the sentiments and commended the university management for this timely initiative.
Celebrating Mothers and Supporting Wellbeing
Dr. Ruth Mitalo, the Registrar for Administration and Human Resources, called the lactation center a perfect Mother’s Day gift, officially launched just two days after the celebration.
Dr. Rispah Wepukhulu, the Director of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies and the launch ceremony’s rapporteur, expressed her gratitude to the university management for this initiative that provides peace of mind to lactating mothers while they fulfill their duties.
The importance of the center was further emphasized by Elizabeth Kemunto, Vice Chair of the Kibabii University Student Organization (SOKU). She stated that the center provides a private and comfortable space for breastfeeding students to nurture their babies.