EXPECTANT mothers in Tanga Region have been urged to completely avoid or significantly reduce their alcohol consumption during pregnancy and child-rearing.

This public health appeal, made by Social Welfare Officer Christine Makoi, is part of a broader campaign to protect children from severe health, psychological, and social consequences. The initiative is being conducted during the National Social Welfare Week, which ended at the weekend.

Makoi emphasized that alcohol consumption during pregnancy can cause irreparable harm to an unborn child. Citing scientific data from the Ministry of Health, she explained that alcohol use can lead to low birth weight, impaired brain development and long-term mental health problems.

"Alcohol reduces folic acid in the brain, a mineral essential for memory and healthy brain growth," she stated. "If a pregnant mother drinks, her child risks mental health disorders and impaired brain development."

She also noted that excessive drinking can suppress a mother's appetite, depriving the fetus of vital nutrients and increasing the likelihood of an underweight baby.

Beyond the physical health risks, Makoi highlighted the psychological and social harm caused by parental alcohol abuse. She explained that a mother who drinks heavily is often less attentive and unable to provide the emotional care and social stimulation a child needs to develop. This can lead to neglect, poor emotional bonding, and even child abuse, all of which prevent a child from learning and adapting in society.

"Raising a child requires emotional attention at every stage," Makoi said. She added that alcohol abuse among parents often leads to domestic violence, which further compounds the psychological trauma for children.

In a related development, Godfrey Akuno, another Social Welfare Officer, said Tanga City Council has expanded access to early childhood care centres in remote areas. This move aims to provide supportive environments for children and ensure they have a healthy start in life.