Talk to your midwife with Sarah Nkansah BOATENG: Prioritie breastfeeding: Create sustainable support systems

Every year from August 1 to 7, the world observes World Breastfeeding Week – a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and advocating for stronger support systems for mothers and babies.

This year’s theme, ‘Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems’, reminds us that breastfeeding is not just a mother’s responsibility, but a shared commitment that requires family, community, workplace and national support.

Breastfeeding is the first vaccine a child receives. Breast milk contains antibodies that protect babies from life-threatening illnesses such as diarrhoea and pneumonia, while also boosting growth and brain development.

For mothers, breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, aids in postpartum recovery and strengthens the emotional bond with their babies. Beyond the individual, breastfeeding is sustainable. It requires no packaging, reduces reliance on formula and minimises environmental waste.

Globally, however, only 48 percent of infants under six months are exclusively breastfed, far below the 60 percent target set for 2030. In Ghana, the rate is slightly higher at 52 percent, but still short of the national goal. Regional variations are also significant: while the Northern Region records higher rates (63%), Greater Accra struggles with much lower numbers.

Why support systems are key

Breastfeeding success depends on more than a mother’s willingness. It is shaped by the environment around her. Sustainable support systems are critical in five areas:
1. Health facilities – Hospitals and clinics should provide skilled counselling during antenatal visits, delivery and postnatal care. Trained midwives and nurses can address early challenges, such as poor latching or low milk supply.
2. Community support – Peer groups, mother-to-mother counselling and home visits give mothers the encouragement they need to continue breastfeeding up to two years and beyond.
3. Workplace support – Paid maternity leave, breastfeeding breaks and designated lactation spaces empower working mothers to sustain exclusive breastfeeding.
4. Policy protection – Enforcing the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes helps shield families from aggressive formula marketing that undermines breastfeeding.
5. Investing in programmes – Every dollar invested in breastfeeding yields up to US$35 in health, education and economic benefits. Supporting breastfeeding is one of the smartest investments a nation can make.

What every mother should know

– Early initiation matters: Start breastfeeding within the first hour after birth.
– Exclusive breastfeeding: Give only breast milk for the first six months, no water, no other foods.
– Continue longer: After six months, introduce safe complementary foods while continuing to breastfeed up to two years or more.
– Seek help early: If you face challenges, speak to a midwife or trained breastfeeding counsellor.

Breastfeeding is a natural act, but it doesn’t happen naturally without support. Families must encourage mothers, health workers must provide skilled guidance, workplaces must create mother-friendly policies, and governments must invest in long-term breastfeeding programmes.

When we prioritise breastfeeding, we invest not only in healthier babies and mothers, but in a stronger, more sustainable future for Ghana.