IN CONVERSATION WITH STEVE MABONA
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World Breastfeeding Week is observed globally from 1 to 7 August each year to promote breastfeeding as one of the most effective ways to improve child health and survival. The 2026 theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” highlights the importance of protecting and supporting breastfeeding through families, healthcare systems, workplaces and communities.
The Gauteng Department of Health is encouraging mothers to initiate breastfeeding within the first hour after birth and to exclusively breastfeed for the first six months of a baby’s life, in line with World Health Organisation recommendations. After six months, breastfeeding should continue alongside appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond.
Breast milk provides all the nutrients, vitamins and antibodies an infant needs during the first six months of life. It protects babies against illnesses such as diarrhoea, respiratory infections and allergies, while also supporting healthy brain development and reducing the risk of obesity, diabetes and other chronic diseases later in life. For mothers, breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers and strengthens the bond between mother and child.
The Gauteng Department of Health is encouraging mothers to initiate breastfeeding within the first hour after birth and to exclusively breastfeed for the first six months of a baby’s life, in line with World Health Organisation recommendations. After six months, breastfeeding should continue alongside appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond.
Breast milk provides all the nutrients, vitamins and antibodies an infant needs during the first six months of life. It protects babies against illnesses such as diarrhoea, respiratory infections and allergies, while also supporting healthy brain development and reducing the risk of obesity, diabetes and other chronic diseases later in life. For mothers, breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers and strengthens the bond between mother and child.
