This article was originally published on Malawi24 ">Malawi24, Malawi's #1 independent news platform. Breastfeeding mothers in Malawi are facing challenges that go beyond feeding their babies, with health advocates calling for changes in workplaces, public institutions and communities. The advocates say lack of suitable spaces and social stigma continue to make breastfeeding difficult for some women, potentially affecting efforts to ensure children receive the recommended nutrition. The concerns
Breastfeeding mothers in Malawi are facing challenges that go beyond feeding their babies, with health advocates calling for changes in workplaces, public institutions and communities.
The advocates say lack of suitable spaces and social stigma continue to make breastfeeding difficult for some women, potentially affecting efforts to ensure children receive the recommended nutrition.
The concerns come amid growing calls for private, safe and accessible spaces where women can feed their babies without fear of embarrassment or discrimination.
The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a child’s life, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods for up to two years or beyond.
Health experts say breast milk provides infants with essential nutrients while helping protect them from illnesses. Breastfeeding also strengthens the bond between mothers and their children.
Despite these benefits, some Malawian mothers say social attitudes and workplace restrictions discourage them from breastfeeding outside their homes.
Anesi Bitoni, a young businesswoman from Blantyre, said she avoids breastfeeding in public because she considers exposing her breasts in public inappropriate. She instead relies on bottled milk and other drinks during the day before breastfeeding her daughter at home.
For working mothers, the challenge can be even greater.
Janet Jonah, a domestic worker from Chirimba Township in Blantyre, said she stopped breastfeeding her first child after three months because she had returned to work. She currently leaves her second child with relatives while she works.
Jonah said providing mothers with adequate breaks during working hours would enable women like her to continue breastfeeding for longer.
Health advocates argue that such experiences demonstrate the need for employers to move beyond general encouragement and provide practical support, including breastfeeding breaks and suitable spaces.
Dr Bridget Malewezi and Florence Bwanali have stressed that infant formula cannot fully replicate the nutritional, immunological and bonding benefits associated with breastfeeding.
UNICEF and WHO have also highlighted breastfeeding as an important foundation for children’s health and development, while pointing to the economic benefits of policies that support mothers.
Malawi has promoted breastfeeding through annual awareness campaigns, but advocates say public messaging needs to be matched by stronger implementation of policies that protect breastfeeding mothers.
Health Minister Madalitso Baloyi, speaking during this year’s national campaign launch in Lilongwe, said breastfeeding remains one of the most effective interventions for reducing child deaths, malnutrition and disease.
The campaign’s theme, “Prioritise breastfeeding: create sustainable support systems,” places emphasis on building conditions that allow mothers to breastfeed successfully.
National data cited in the report suggests that exclusive breastfeeding rates have declined, reinforcing concerns about the barriers facing mothers.
Advocates say employers, government agencies and communities all have a role to play in ensuring that women do not have to choose between earning a living and providing recommended nutrition for their children.
They argue that creating breastfeeding-friendly environments could help Malawi improve maternal and child health while supporting healthier development in early childhood.
