Dr Samuel Kwabena Boakye-Boateng, the Upper East Regional Director of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), says exclusive breastfeeding for six months form the foundation of child health and development. He said breast milk provided infants with the best start in life, as it was universally recognised as the ideal food for infants which offered a perfect blend of the essential nutrients, antibodies, and growth factors vital for the development of a healthy child. Dr Boakye-Boateng was speaking at this year's World Breastfeeding week celebration in Bolgatanga on the theme: "Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all." World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated annually from August 1 to August 7 to encourage breastfeeding and improve the health of babies around the world. The celebration, which saw health officials holding placards with various inscriptions including "Breastfeeding rocks: Let's celebrate healthy babies", "Breast milk tailored nutrition for little tummies," among others went on a float on the principal streets of Bolgatanga and was supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Dr Boakye-Boateng, holding a placard with inscription: "Give only breast milk for the first six months of life for good health, strength and intelligence," led the float to create awareness among members of the public on the importance of breastfeeding.