By Ntonhle Mzileni
MBABANE – Mbabane Clinic Group celebrated the World Breastfeeding Week with an event dedicated to fostering support for all breastfeeding mothers.
The celebration held yesterday (Wednesday, August 7, 2024) at the Mbabane Clinic brought together mothers and health professionals, all coming together to foster a supportive environment for breastfeeding women.
With this year’s theme, ‘Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All,’ the gathering highlighted the essential role of breastfeeding in promoting infant health and the collective responsibility to ensure that every mother receives the guidance and encouragement she needs on her breastfeeding journey.
Topics ranged from proper breastfeeding techniques and addressing common challenges to discussing the emotional and psychological support needed for new mothers. Mbabane Clinic Acting MD, Nokwazi Makhanya explained how breast milk is tailored to meet the specific needs of infants, providing essential nutrients that are crucial for their growth and development.
The Clinic Group CEO, Khotso Ramphele highlighted that this annual observance serves as an assembly point, emphasising that breastfeeding is not merely a personal choice but a fundamental right that deserves recognition and respect in all public spaces be it on public transport, in parks, or during community events.
“The world allocated the entire week to promote the concept of breastfeeding and encourage mothers to choose this as an option to breastfeed their children. As it is a cornerstone of the health for babies and their mothers, because breastfeeding is natural, cost effective and sustainable,” Ramphele said.
Khumbuzile Dlamini a dietician, further shared that breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits, providing antibodies that help protect babies from illnesses and diseases. “Breastfeeding can reduce certain risks associated with formula feeding, such as contamination from improper mixing, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies or imbalances. And it not only benefits infants but the mother as well, as it contributes to postpartum recovery by aiding in uterine contraction and reducing postpartum bleeding,” Dlamini stated.
Dlamini also emphased the need to ensure that adequate support systems are in place within healthcare settings to promote and facilitate breastfeeding. “Infants who are exclusively breastfed for the first six months thrive nutritionally and are less susceptible to certain health issues. With the right support and encouragement, more mothers can successfully breastfeed,” she said.
