National Mascot Koki to promote breastfeeding and encourage family support

The National Breastfeeding Mascot, Koki, inspired by the Pink pigeon, symbol of care, resilience and hope, was unveiled this morning by the Junior Minister of Health and Wellness, Mrs Anishta Babooram and the World Health Organization (WHO) Resident Representative to Mauritius, Dr Abdou Salam Gueye, in Quatre-Bornes.

Koki serves as a friendly symbol promoting breastfeeding, encouraging family support and raising public awareness throughout the country.

The initiative forms part of Governmental activities being organised to commemorate the World Breastfeeding Week 2026 focusing on the theme ‘Breastfeeding for a sustainable start in life: strengthen what works’. A National Scientific Symposium on breastfeeding under the theme ‘Strengthening What Works: Advancing Breastfeeding Through Evidence, Policy and Practice’, was also launched on the occasion. It brings together healthcare professionals and stakeholders to share knowledge, strengthen competencies and promote evidence-based practices.

In her address, the Junior Minister underpinned Government’s intent to reinforce the system, services and supportive environment that enable mothers to initiate and sustain breastfeeding. Breastfeeding, she recalled, is one of the most effective and cost-efficient public health intervention available, contributing directly to the health of children, protecting them against illnesses, reduce morbidity and mortality while supporting optimal growth and development. Its benefits, she underlined, also extends to the well-being of mothers such as reduced risks of ovarian and breast cancers.

Pertaining to the national breastfeeding mascot Koki, Junior Minister Babooram described it as a recognisable symbol to Government’s commitment to giving every child the healthiest possible start of life.

As for Dr Abdou Salam Gueye, he qualified breastfeeding as not only a personal choice, but also a public health priority and mothers need counselling, supportive healthcare services, family encouragement, productive work environment, and protection from inappropriate commercial influence.

He also recognised Mauritius’ progress made in strengthening the system, and announced that WHO is supporting the country to develop a National Infant Feeding Policy, to ensure continuum of care and establish clear standards for quality monitoring and accountability.

03 August 2026

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Topics: Health