“Breastfeeding is more than a way of feeding a baby – it provides essential nutrients, helps protect infants from illness, and creates an important bond between mother and child.”

This was the message shared by Witkoppen Clinic during its breastfeeding week celebration on August 7, where mothers and their babies were given an opportunity to learn more about breastfeeding and its benefits.

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Assistant dietitian at Witkoppen Clinic Asanda Ndzimande explained that breast milk is considered the ideal food for infants because it is safe, clean, and naturally contains antibodies that help protect babies against common childhood illnesses. “Breast milk provides all the energy and nutrients the infant needs for the first months of life.”

She explained that mothers are encouraged to initiate breastfeeding within an hour of giving birth and exclusively breastfeed for the first six months. Breastfeeding can then continue alongside appropriate complementary foods until two years and beyond. Ndzimande also highlighted the importance of skin-to-skin contact between mothers and their babies, saying it helps strengthen the bond between them and contributes to the baby’s development.

For Winnie Ndembera, one of the mothers who attended the celebration with her baby, the event provided an opportunity to reinforce knowledge she already had about breastfeeding. Ndembera is already breastfeeding her son and said the programme served as a reminder of why the practice is important for both mother and baby. She also gained further information that she could apply as she continues her breastfeeding journey.

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Business development manager at Witkoppen Clinic Elaine Ngwenya said the clinic uses breastfeeding week to intensify its year-round efforts to educate mothers about breastfeeding and infant care. Ngwenya said mothers can sometimes turn to formula because they perceive it as more convenient, but breastfeeding provides a readily available source of nutrition that changes according to the baby’s needs. “Breastfeeding is the most nutritious and most valuable option for their babies.”

She also addressed misconceptions surrounding HIV and breastfeeding, explaining that mothers living with HIV can breastfeed when they are receiving appropriate treatment and their viral load is controlled.

Ngwenya said this year’s celebration was particularly successful, with support from the Omnia Group allowing the clinic to provide participating mothers with food parcels and toiletries.

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