(Gbediah Town, Rivercess County, Liberia, December 5, 2025)—The Ministry of Health, through its Nutrition Division, today launched the “Start Strong” Liberia First1000 Days Campaign in Gbediah Town, Rivercess County, marking a major step in strengthening maternal, infant, and young child nutrition across the country.

Declaring the campaign officially open, Dr. Louise Mapleh Kpoto, Minister of Health, emphasized to mothers, caregivers, and community leaders the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, appropriate child feeding practices, and proper maternal nutrition during pregnancy and the early years of a child’s life.

“We are saying you should take care of the child from your one-month pregnancy to nine months and the first two years of life, which completes the First 1,000 days we are talking about,” Dr. Kpoto explained.

She stressed that the first 1,000 days, from conception to age two, are crucial to a child’s nutritional status, growth, and long-term development.

“One key thing you need to do to keep the baby healthy is proper breastfeeding. Breastfeed the child to be strong,” she urged.

Dr. Kpoto extended appreciation to partners, the Nutrition Division, and the Rivercess County Health Team for organizing the launch event.

“Thanks to all of you for coming and contributing to this occasion. By the power vested in me, I declare this campaign open,” she declared.

In separate remarks, partners, including UNICEF, pledged their continued support to the “Start Strong” Liberia First 1000 Days Campaign.

The Ministry of Health reaffirmed its commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes through sustained community engagement, evidence-based nutrition interventions, and strong partnerships that reinforce the country’s health system, particularly during the critical first 1,000 days of life.