With breastfeeding recognised as a key tool in reducing infant illness, malnutrition and child mortality, experts say improving breastfeeding rates will require more than awareness campaigns.

World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated from Saturday (1/8) to Friday (7/8), and health authorities are highlighting the need for sustained support for mothers both at home and in the workplace.

The annual campaign aims to raise awareness about the health, social and economic benefits of breastfeeding for infant survival and maternal well-being.

The 2026 campaign is being commemorated under the theme: Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works, highlighting the role of breastfeeding in nutrition, food security and poverty reduction, while promoting cost-effective interventions that can strengthen existing breastfeeding support systems.

“South Africa is commemorating World Breastfeeding Week to raise awareness about the vital health, social and economic benefits of breastfeeding for infant survival and maternal well-being,” said national department of health spokesperson Foster Mohale.

“Breastmilk remains a child’s first vaccine and provides the best protection against many illnesses and diseases, making breastfeeding an important part of ensuring children have a healthy start in life.

“South Africa continues to face suboptimal breastfeeding practices, with our national exclusive breastfeeding rate sitting at 22%, which remains significantly below the global target of 60% set for 2030.”

The department of health said reaching the 2030 target will require a collective effort to reduce infant mortality, combat childhood malnutrition and lower maternal health risks.

Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival. Breastmilk is considered the ideal food for infants as it is safe, clean and contains antibodies that help protect babies against common childhood illnesses.

Breastfed children have also been found to perform better on intelligence tests, while being less likely to become overweight or obese or develop diabetes later in life. Women who breastfeed have a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers.

Globally, almost 48% of infants under six months were exclusively breastfed in 2024, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The WHO and Unicef recommend that mothers initiate breastfeeding within the first hour after birth and exclusively breastfeed their babies for the first six months, without providing other foods or liquids, including water.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

• Do you have a news tip to share? Call or whatsapp the OFM News line: 066 487 1427.