Kuwait’s Ministry of Health has recognized hospitals that achieved or renewed their Baby-Friendly Hospital accreditation, highlighting efforts to improve breastfeeding support and maternal healthcare services.
Health Minister Dr Ahmad Al-Awadhi presented the honors during a ceremony organized by the Nutrition and Food Department in cooperation with the National Breastfeeding Support Committee.
Al-Jahra Hospital received the IBCLC Care Award 2026 for its commitment to international standards in breastfeeding support and healthcare practices. The hospital joined other Kuwaiti medical facilities that have received the internationally recognized award.
The Ministry of Health said the recognition reflects Kuwait’s continued efforts to enhance healthcare quality by promoting breastfeeding-friendly environments and adopting global best practices in maternal and child care.
Dr Mona Al-Sumaiei, coordinator of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, said Kuwait has implemented the program since 1998, making steady progress in supporting breastfeeding across healthcare facilities.
Al-Adan Hospital renewed its Baby-Friendly Hospital accreditation for the fifth consecutive time, while Taiba Hospital secured its fourth renewal. Al-Farwaniya Hospital received the accreditation for the first time for a three-year period.
The ministry also highlighted improvements in breastfeeding rates, with national data showing that 94 percent of mothers began breastfeeding within the first hour after birth in 2025. Exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months reached 33 percent.
Officials said the achievements reflect Kuwait’s commitment to strengthening newborn and maternal health services and maintaining international healthcare standards.
