Ireland funds €900K nutrition drive for children in Southeast Asia

The Government of Ireland has pledged €900,000 to expand a nutrition programme for infants and young children across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. The funding was announced by Irish Minister of State Charlie McConalogue T.D. during a visit to Duc Giang General Hospital in Hanoi. The initiative aims to boost access to vital nutrition services for vulnerable groups in the region.

The programme operates in around 140 hospitals and health centres across the three countries. Its key focus is improving infant and young child nutrition through measures like promoting breastfeeding, setting up 'Excellent Breastfeeding Hospitals,' and developing breast milk banks. Training and experience-sharing between health facilities—particularly using Vietnam's successful model—will also play a major role.

At both local and national levels, the project works with health ministries to shape policies and standards. A central goal is to replicate Vietnam's 'Centre of Excellence for Breastfeeding' in Cambodia and Laos through regional cooperation. The funding will help scale up these efforts, ensuring more families benefit from proven nutrition practices.

The €900,000 grant will strengthen nutrition services for children in 140 health facilities. By sharing Vietnam's expertise, the programme seeks to improve breastfeeding rates and access to essential care. The collaboration between Ireland and the three countries will continue to expand over the coming years.