World Breastfeeding Week

Across many African communities, breastfeeding has historically been an integral part of daily life—embedded in social norms, communal care, and lived experience. Before the widespread availability of hospitals, manuals, or infant formula, women breastfed their children within systems of support that were largely informal but structured by shared knowledge and collective responsibility.

In these traditional settings, breastfeeding was not necessarily seen as a medical concern or individual challenge, but rather as a natural part of the early stages of motherhood. Experienced women—relatives, neighbours, or elders—often surrounded new mothers and offered advice, assistance, and encouragement. These interactions, while not institutionalised, provided important guidance through observation, conversation, and mutual care.

Today, the context has shifted. Breastfeeding support is more commonly delivered through formal channels such as healthcare providers, brochures, or antenatal education sessions. While these resources are valuable, many mothers may find themselves navigating early breastfeeding challenges without the kind of everyday, hands-on support that was more accessible in the past. Urbanisation, mobility, and changing family structures have contributed to this change, often leaving new mothers with fewer informal support systems.

Public attitudes toward breastfeeding have also evolved. In some contemporary settings, people view breastfeeding in public with discomfort or stigma. This contrasts with earlier norms in many African societies, where breastfeeding openly—whether at home, in the market, or during community gatherings—was commonplace and widely accepted. Traditionally, breastfeeding also served functions beyond nutrition. It provided comfort, facilitated bonding, and helped soothe or calm a child. Recent scientific research supports these functions, noting the psychological and emotional benefits of frequent, close contact between mother and child.

Another noteworthy aspect of traditional practices was the postpartum period. In some cultures, mothers were given a defined period of rest after childbirth, often lasting several weeks. During this time, other family members helped with daily tasks, allowing the mother to focus on healing and breastfeeding. In contrast, many modern mothers return to household duties or formal work much sooner, sometimes before fully recovering or establishing breastfeeding routines.

As we observe World Breastfeeding Week from 1^st to 7^th August, it may be helpful to reflect on how traditional approaches and modern systems intersect. While contemporary healthcare offers significant advancements and support, earlier practices offer insights into communal care, emotional well-being, and social acceptance that may still hold relevance. Rather than idealising the past or dismissing the present, there is value in examining both, identifying practices that promote confidence, consistency, and comfort for breastfeeding mothers. Traditional breastfeeding practices, grounded in cultural norms and collective support, may provide valuable perspectives as efforts continue to improve maternal and child health outcomes across diverse contexts.