Ireland boosts child nutrition in Southeast Asia with €900,000 expansion
The Government of Ireland has pledged an additional €900,000 to expand a nutrition program across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. The funding will build on existing efforts to improve infant and young child nutrition through regional collaboration. Irish Minister of State Charlie McConalogue T.D. announced the commitment during a visit to Duc Giang General Hospital in Hanoi.
The program, running since 2017, has already received €7.8 million in Irish funding. It operates through 140 hospitals and health centres in the three countries, working closely with national health ministries. The initiative adopts Vietnam's successful 'Centre of Excellence for Breastfeeding' model to guide improvements.
Key measures include promoting breastfeeding, setting up 'excellent breastfeeding hospitals,' and developing breast milk banks. Health officials receive training and share expertise across borders to strengthen nutrition standards. The project also focuses on shaping national policies to support long-term child health. Ireland's partnership with Alive and Thrive and the three governments aims to create sustainable change. By scaling up proven methods, the program seeks to reduce malnutrition and improve early-life health outcomes.
The new €900,000 grant will further expand the program's reach in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. With 140 facilities already involved, the initiative continues to prioritise breastfeeding support and regional mentorship. The funding reinforces Ireland's long-term commitment to improving child nutrition in Southeast Asia.
