By Samuel Ogunsona
Ekiti State jumped into the arena of leading pro-life states on Tuesday when the state Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi approved six months (180 days) maternity leave for female workers in the state public service. Ekiti is now in the category of many developed countries who allow female workers to go on maternity leave.
The statement which was signed by Yinka Oyebode ,the chief press secretary to the Governor was made available to Irohinoodua on Tuesday.
The denial of such is one of the major causes of high infant mortality rate across the world.
The United Nations, (UN) and the World Health Organisation, (WHO) have persistently called for maternity leave for female workers to enhance efficient care for infants most kf who need breast feed and other crucial primary care that only their mothers could provide
This is in line with the administration’s determination to key into global best practices that will improve the quality of lives of the citizens.
The new policy, which takes effect from February 1, 2020 is aimed at improving maternal health and encourage nursing mothers to observe the six months exclusive breast feeding campaign of the United Nations Intervention Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF).
The six months exclusive breast feeding campaign is aimed at reducing to the barest minimum, infant and maternal mortality rate as well as facilitate work life balance for female workers in the state.
The Ekiti State Government continues to show strong political will towards ensuring gender inclusiveness This policy is one of many other frameworks in place aimed at promoting the rights of women and children.