By Nelson Manneh
The Acting Executive Director of the National Nutrition Agency (NaNA) Mr Malang Fofana has recently informed this medium that maternal leave that is accorded to pregnant or lactating mothers is not a privilege, but a right.
“We are aware that there are some private institutions who do not abide by this law, they take it as a privilege and not a right. Sometimes it leads to employees losing their job because they are denied the said leave,” he said.
ED Fofana said, according to the Women’s Act, every pregnant woman or lactating mother must go on leave for six months depending on the time she wants to take the leave.
“As we join the rest of the world to observe World Breastfeeding Week from the 1st to 7th August, we unite with our partners to close the gaps and support breastfeeding at all levels. Breastfeeding is not just a feeding choice; it’s a responsibility of every mother. Every mother deserves the encouragement and assistance she needs to nourish her baby with confidence,” he said.
He said the advocacy will continue as Breastfeeding is not just a feeding choice; it’s a responsibility of every mother.
“In The Gambia, we face little or no challenges when it comes to breastfeeding, our women are willing to do so for more than a year, and some even go for two years. Therefore, obstacles should not be their career or the work they are doing. They should be given the environment for them to do so,” he said.
According to him, in government institutions, the issue of allowing women to enjoy maternity leave has not been a problem compared to the private sector.
He said any employee who faces challenges regarding maternity leave can visit their office for assistance.
“You can sue your employer for not giving you maternity leave if you are due for it,” he said.
