Muthoni Njoki

Worldwide Breastfeeding Week is celebrated on 1st -7th August every year. The week was founded in 1992 to generate public awareness and support for breastfeeding.&nbsp;

According to a report, in Kenya 99% of babies are breastfeed and only 61% of babies are exclusively breastfeed for their first six months of life.

In the absence of breast milk, infant formula is used. However, formula is very expensive, with a 400gm tin retailing at Sh1,571. This is out of reach for many Kenyan mothers.&nbsp;

The Breastfeeding Mothers Bill, 2017&nbsp;

Once the 90 days of maternity are up, most moms end up switching to formula milk or animal milk due to a lack of lactation rooms at the workplace. I was lucky enough to work in a company where I had access to a lactation room.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/lifestyle/beauty-health/world-breastfeeding-week-2018-8-benefits-of-breastfeeding-for-the-mother-and-baby/e5x8l4w">8 benefits of breastfeeding for the mother and baby</a>

Breastfeed in a more laid back position to reduce the pain

My office was at Strathmore University, where, guess what? There was a nursing (lactation) room! It was conveniently located in the Students’ Center. Very nondescript and easy to ignore. It had a fridge, a comfortable seat, an electricity outlet, hand sanitizer and paper towels. Heaven.&nbsp;

However, that wasn’t the case at the University of Nairobi where I still had my classes.

There were no nursing rooms on campus. I had to express milk four times a day and I could only do it from home. I constantly dealt with leaking breasts and wearing multiple breast pads at a go. Every new mother’s definition of hell.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/lifestyle/beauty-health/5-surprising-uses-of-breast-milk-besides-feeding-the-baby/9hftecc">5 surprising uses of breast milk besides feeding the baby</a>

In Kenya, we have the Breastfeeding Mothers Bill 2017 that was sponsored by Sabina Chege, Women Representative for Murang’a County.

Breastfeeding is a challenge new mothers face {aclu}

The Bill mandates creation of lactation rooms accessible to the public in buildings with a minimum occupancy of 50 persons. The bill also provides for the right to breastfeed in public.&nbsp;

What a breastfeeding room should be like

The Bill states that a lactation room shall be shielded from view and be free from intrusion from co-workers; be clean, quiet, private and warm and should not be a bathroom or toilet.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/apo/protect-exclusive-breastfeeding-women-call-on-workplaces-to-support-with-facilities/xbfnqf8">Protect exclusive breastfeeding, women call on workplaces to support with facilities</a>

The room should have a lockable door; have a wash basin; have a fridge for storing expressed milk; have a provision for an electric outlet and lighting; and have a chair, table and a clean space to store equipment.&nbsp;

Breastfeeding for new mothers can be a bit difficult {mamawa}

Malls and eateries like Java are on the right track. They have changing rooms and changing tables in their premises. This makes the customer experience a lot better.

Pro tip: a happy customer is a returning customer. A returning customer is a willing buyer.&nbsp;

The Bill had earlier been proposed, in 2015 by Kitui South MP Rachel Nyamai, but it was rejected after threats from business groups who vowed to stop employing women if forced to provide breastfeeding facilities.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/lifestyle/beauty-health/breastfeeding-benefits-breastfeeding-for-6-months-can-lower-the-risk-of-diabetes/ypzwqf6">Breastfeeding for 6 months can lower the risk of diabetes</a>

In addition, the Bill proposes that, “In circumstances where a baby needs to be breastfed for longer, a breastfeeding mother may apply for a flexible work arrangement (flexi-hours) for the purposes of breastfeeding or expressing milk at a location close to work or at home. The flexible arrangement shall specify the hours, type and work assignment and location to work from.”&nbsp;

Currently, the Bill is in the public participation stage where legislators are seeking feedback. Future breastfeeding mothers are now one step closer to exclusively breastfeeding their babies for the first six months. Consequences of not providing nursing rooms include a one-year jail term or a Sh500,000 fine.&nbsp;

The foregoing is an Opinion Article submitted to Pulse Live Kenya for publication as part of the Pulse Contributors Initiative.

Pulse Contributors is an initiative to highlight diverse journalistic voices. Pulse Contributors do not represent the company Pulse and contribute on their own behalf.

Should you wish to submit an Article to Pulse, do so via contributors@pulse.co.ke.

Muthoni Njoki is a Kenyan Writer, Marketing &amp; Communications Consultant and civil servant, with over 8 years in private and public service. The world is her oyster so she lives life to the fullest. Her mantra is, "Every moment on earth is a story to be told".

Image of a Kenyan mother breastfeeding her child (UNICEF Kenya)

Find out what is in the Breastfeeding Mothers Bill, 2017

The right to Breastfeed in public [Pulse Contributor's Opinion]

Frankie Kiarie who goes by Frankie JustGymIt or Coach Frankie on social media has gone viral due to his marketing strategy, with his images finding their way to BlackTwitter.&nbsp;

In the photos posted online, Frankie can be seen holding a brown cardboard by the roadside in Nairobi.

The first image Frankie posted on his Instagram page mid August read, "Look at your stomach. Are you happy?"

The second image posted last week read, "Slimming tea na mandazi tatu is not a meal."&nbsp;

Frankie is a Fitness, Nutrition &amp; Lifestyle consultant and the founder of JustGymIt. We can only assume this is part of his marketing strategy. Probably imitating Dude With Sign, who most recently was at the White House together with President Biden urging Americans to get vaccinated against Corona.&nbsp;

Both images have gone viral and have caused an uproar on social media with one side claiming that the messaging is rife with misogyny and body shaming.

Alongside claims that if he had clients he wouldn’t be busy holding signs by the roadside. The other side claiming that the messaging is okay since people are now talking about it.&nbsp;

When you examine both images, they are two of the most engaged posts on his page, in the recent past. He’s relaying on outrage marketing to bring awareness on weight loss and benefits of good nutrition.&nbsp;

Outrage marketing can be defined as a type of marketing strategy that relies on messaging that is controversial, deliberately shocking, offends and startles the audience.

Outrage marketing relies on the use of blunt slogans or imagery to highlight your message. The aim is to create a buzz across social media, go viral, generate numerous clicks and high engagement on the posts.&nbsp;

Frankie. List of hot male celebrities who are single

In this instance, he has said something inflammatory, there’s an uproar across all social media platforms, stories are written about it across digital media platforms and he lives to do it multiple times.&nbsp;

Those calling out the messaging insist that as a fitness coach and nutritionist, Frankie can find a better way to educate people and get clients.

He should do it with empathy and care. Positive reinforcement works better than insulting/ shaming someone into compliance.&nbsp;

People supporting Frankie are asking the rest to stop being sensitive, to hit the gym if the message made them feel some type of way.&nbsp;

In the meantime, we wait and see whether business will pick. And remember at the end of the day, you don’t owe anyone a flat stomach.

Look at your stomach. Are you happy?

Is Frankie JustGymIt guilty of body shaming? [Pulse Contributor's Opinion]

Pulse Contributor

Back in the day, pregnant women had to endure uncomfortable, ugly maternity dresses. They also had to endure bras whose straps would cut into the shoulders and not accommodate the growing breast cup. Down the line, this leads to back pain and discomfort as you go about your day.&nbsp;

However, that isn’t the case anymore.&nbsp;

For a pregnant woman, there are multiple clothing items to make your pregnancy even more comfortable while still remaining fashionable.&nbsp;

Here are top 5 items to have in your wardrobe:&nbsp;

<h3>1. Jumpsuits&nbsp;</h3>

The first must have item is a jumpsuit. This is my all time favourite wardrobe item. It hugs all your curves and shows off the growing baby bump. They come in multiple styles so you can find formal ones to rock up to the office in.&nbsp;

They are also very easy to pair with sandals or doll shoes and a sweater or jacket.&nbsp;

The downside is the ‘getting naked’ every time you visit the washroom i.e. having to half undress. Beware, this will happen frequently.&nbsp;

<h3>2. Sundresses&nbsp;</h3>

Ankara maternity dresses for the stylish pregnant woman

This one goes without saying. They give your body enough room to breathe and can be paired with either sandals or doll shoes.&nbsp;

The beauty of sundresses is that they come in so many different colors, patterns and fabrics so you are spoilt for choice!&nbsp;

Depending on how formal your office is, you can find laid back styles and patterns that you can wear to work.&nbsp;

<h3>3. Linen slacks&nbsp;</h3>

I find linen pants very comfortable since they are made of breathable fabric. Throw in drawstrings and you have a winner.

Due to the lightness of the fabric, they don't put pressure on your waist and belly. There's nothing more irritating than feeling like peeing every ten minutes because your pants are messing with your bladder.&nbsp;

They also come in various colours from muted colours to bright colours to brighten your day.&nbsp;

Pair them with a blazer and formal shoes for that official look.&nbsp;

<h3>4. Jeans&nbsp;during pregnancy</h3>

Yes, you can wear jeans even at 9 months.&nbsp;

The key is to look for low riding ones that sit on your lowest waist. Pair with a t-shirt and sneakers for a casual, laid back look.&nbsp;

You can also leave the top button open - just ensure the zipper stays up and wear a proper top that will cover the zipper.&nbsp;

<h3>5. Nursing bras&nbsp;</h3>

A pregnant body goes through a lot of changes, from skin sensitivity to weight gain and bloating. It’s very normal for breasts to go up two cup sizes during pregnancy.&nbsp;

Nursing bras are specifically designed for pre, partum and postpartum. They hold the growing breasts and ease the pressure on the shoulders and back. They provide all the necessary support to carry out daily activities from working out to running errands and more.&nbsp;

No matter the stage you’re in, grab a nursing bra and your back will thank you.

There you have it, my top 5 pregnancy items. What are yours?

Loose fitting outfits during pregnancy(FashionGHANA)

As a pregnant woman, there are multiple clothing items to make your pregnancy even more comfortable while still remaining fashionable.

Top 5 pregnancy outfits to keep in your wardrobe

The Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) 2-6-3-3 was introduced in Kenya in 2017 to replace the 8-4-4 curriculum.

Prior to the 8-4-4 curriculum, Kenya had the the 7-4-2-3 curriculum which was a colonial remnant.&nbsp;

These various curricula have been introduced as a response to workforce needs within the country. As a result, CBC was introduced in order to churn out citizens with specialized skills.

Under CBC, students will go through two years of pre primary, six years of primary school split as three years of lower primary (Grade 1-3) and three years of upper primary (Grade 4-6), six years of high school split as three years in lower secondary (Grade7- 9) and three years of upper secondary (Grade 10-12) and three years of higher education.

It sounds like it’s a lot, it is. Students will spend an extra year in school.&nbsp;

Gilgil MP Martha Wangari sparks debate after posting child's CBC school project

Cost of CBC for Parents

For a lot of parents, CBC is a costly affair with each grade requiring acquisition of new textbooks that the kids will write in, therefore, they can’t be re-used. They also can’t be donated to libraries.&nbsp;

The students also now carry a lot of supplies to school, from manila paper to office glue and even tissue paper.&nbsp;

In addition, the current implementation of the curriculum is book (publisher) heavy. A lot of the work that the students have to do is practical and to be done at home rather in school.&nbsp;

Recently, I had to buy Grade Two books and the high cost of the books shook me. They were 19 text books for the 9 units. Three textbooks were not available. They are yet to be published despite having been approved by the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD).&nbsp;

Subjects re-introduced

It is a throwback to the 7-4-2-3 curriculum whereby students would proceed for O’Levels (Form 5 and Form 6) for specialization.

Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) flags 2 areas of CBC misinterpreted by teachers making it expensive for parents

Under CBC, students begin specialization at Grade 7 with the option to select subjects such as Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Home Science and Computer Science.&nbsp;

Music, Art, Agriculture, Home Science from 8-4-4 have also been reintroduced. I recall studying Art and Music briefly in Class 3 only for the classes to be discontinued with no communication.&nbsp;

These classes have been reintroduced as from Grade 1 with Home Science being taught as Hygiene &amp; Nutrition. Agriculture, Music and Art will be taught from Grade 4.

How Can Schools Respond?&nbsp;

<ul><li>Build Libraries&nbsp;</li></ul>

The secondary school I attended, issued all students with textbooks at the beginning of the year. You were responsible for the books and would pay for books you lost or spoilt beyond repair. This instilled the spirit of taking care of property under our use.&nbsp;

In addition, our parents neither had to bear the cost of purchasing books nor worry about us accessing quality learning materials. The school took care of this.&nbsp;

All schools should be mandated to have libraries. This improves the quality of learning and gives teachers more resources to use in the teaching-learning process.&nbsp;

<ul><li>Create A Parents Fund&nbsp;</li></ul>

Due to economies of scale, schools are in a better position to purchase books and other school supplies on behalf of the parents at fair prices.

In addition, since the school has already decided upon the textbooks to use, it’s much easier for them to get in touch with the publishers and distributors.&nbsp;

Parents can then contribute a certain amount at the start of the year to cover the cost of these school supplies.&nbsp;

<ul><li>Petitioning publishers to separate activity books from notes </li></ul>

One way to curb cost would be to have the schools create their own activities worksheets that are then distributed to the students. Or have the publishers create these worksheets and sell them separately from the textbooks. This way, the books can be re-used for a number of years.&nbsp;

The cost of living will only keep on going up. It is only fair that we make education accessible and affordable for every student.

For a lot of parents, CBC is a costly affair

The price to pay in implementing the CBC curriculum [Pulse Contributor's Opinion]

In a country like Kenya where books are taxed (16% VAT) while helicopters are zero rated, libraries are more important now than ever.&nbsp;

According to a report, the Kenya adult literacy rate was at a level of 81.5 % in 2018, up from 78.7 % in 2014. Libraries help foster literacy and learning.&nbsp;

Through the Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) Board, the government can instill and promote a reading culture country-wide. Public libraries where citizens and non-citizens <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/bi/lifestyle/top-11-most-memorable-kenyan-high-school-set-books/d5ymmgg">can access books</a>, access a community, and safeguard cultural heritage.&nbsp;

Other organizations like The Book Bunk have come in to fill this gap. They have restored the McMillan Memorial Library in Nairobi CBD, Kaloleni and Makadara.&nbsp;

4 reasons libraries are important: A case to keep them open [Pulse Contributor's Opinion]

The K-South Bus Library, a bus that has been turned into a library, serves the youth in Kariobangi South and the surrounding estates. It sits on community land and it acts as a safe space for children and a space for them to nurture their creativity.

<h3>Why libraries are key&nbsp;in Kenya</h3>

Here are some reasons why we need libraries across the country and why we need to keep those doors open.&nbsp;

<ul><li>Libraries keep a person busy&nbsp;</li></ul>

<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/bi/lifestyle/here-are-19-books-mandela-wrote-that-you-need-to-read-at-least-one/xq52ncn">I love reading</a>. I spend almost every waking moment reading. Growing up I spent so much time at the library. Poring over volumes and volumes of comic books, storybooks, newspapers, magazines, and solving puzzles.&nbsp;

These kept me occupied for hours on end. My mom didn’t have to worry about where was and I didn’t have to worry about how to spend my time.&nbsp;

I would carry this habit into high school where I would pass a lot of time <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/bi/lifestyle/african-top-ranked-ceo-reveals-6-great-books-to-read-this-month-of-september/5sesqpp">reading novels</a>, magazines and newspapers.&nbsp;

Worldwide, children and adults alike need access to libraries to keep them occupied and away from trouble.

<ul><li>People read to gain knowledge&nbsp;</li></ul>

You spend so much time reading you soon become a walking encyclopedia of information. When did country A gain independence? How many comic book characters exist in X universe?&nbsp;

Your memory gets the necessary exercise to stay sharp. This skill comes in handy throughout life.&nbsp;

Create an account with Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing system to upload and publish your completed book.

With the wide pool of leasable books being accessible, it becomes so much easier to gain knowledge. From science to history to literature, to computer science and so much more.&nbsp;

Some libraries have computers and the internet. Through these resources, library-goers can access more learning materials online and connect with other users worldwide.&nbsp;

<ul><li>Socialisation with other kids &amp; adults&nbsp;</li></ul>

Despite Narok being a small town in the southwestern part of the country, the county has had three libraries in the past twenty years. Two of these have been run by the government and one was privately run.&nbsp;

Over the years I made friends from other schools and kept in touch with the ones I went to school with.

These libraries would serve as meet points and places to pass time. From the basketball court to the tree-filled, carbo-paved compound.&nbsp;

The room also comes decorated — though decorations were limited to a polar bear mail holder and a few books that seemed geared toward the budding startup founder in all of us.

Thus we can use libraries to create communities where children, youth, and adults come together to interact with each other. A space to share skills and knowledge.&nbsp;

Library spaces can also be used to hold events such as film screenings, book readings, festivals arts and crafts sessions, and more.&nbsp;

<ul><li>A safe haven for the community&nbsp;</li></ul>

For children who have a troubled home situation, libraries can become safe havens for them. They can become one of the places where the trauma doesn’t permeate.&nbsp;

Therefore, we need to look at libraries as a source of solace and protection for children. A comfortable place where they can get away from the stress of their world.&nbsp;

6 great books you need to buy this holiday season according to Zep-Re CEO Hope Murera

For instance, in 2018 during the Trump administration, The Haskell Free Library and Opera House, which sits on U.S. – Canada border, acted as a safe haven and a commons for immigrants. They didn’t have to worry about the travel ban once they set foot in the building.&nbsp;

More libraries around the world need to take up the mantle and act as safe spaces for people from all walks of life.&nbsp;

Libraries are key to keeping people busy, being a place to gain knowledge and socialize with other people, and act as a safe haven for kids.&nbsp;

We need a change in legislation to zero-rate books, a fund for writers, editors, and publishers so that they can produce more educational and non-educational books.&nbsp;

I would strongly recommend you visit a library near you today and experience the magic that lives within those walls.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of Pulse as its publisher.

In this Pulse Contributor's Opinion, she explores 4 strong reasons to keep libraries in Kenya open, using Narok County as an example.

Do you know the Kenyan 'matatu' that is a library?

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