He was saying this at Kgapane Hospital during the World Breastfeeding Week celebration ceremony.

“Often people underestimate the power of breastfeeding and think that a formula is a substitute for breastmilk and it should never be the case.

“Breastmilk promotes growth and has immuno components which the baby needs,” he explained.

The occasion was held at the martenity ward where midwives, new mothers and expecting mothers attended.

They were also joined by University of Limpopo Trust representatives who were also so there to witness the celebrations.

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Sister Jane Malatji led the mothers in songs and gave them antenatal education, before sending them back to their rooms.

Malatji urges mothers to only feed their children breastmilk during the age of 0 to 6 months, before introducing solids.

She also stated that the hospital encourages mothers to take extra care when looking after their young ones during the Covid-19 season.

“Mothers should start by washing their hands and wear their masks, before they can pick up their babies for breastfeeding.

“We are also encouraging them not to kiss their babies for Corona prevention purposes and most mothers find it hard to stick to that request,” Malatji explained.

First time mother to a few days old infant, Gerda Rapatsa from Maphalle Village said that she already enjoys her breastfeeding times with her baby.

“I will be feeding my baby breastmilk only, as I know it is good for him,” she said.