Staff Reporter
THE Ministry of Health and Social Services has called for stronger support systems for breastfeeding mothers as Namibia joined the global commemoration of World Breastfeeding Week 2026, highlighting breastfeeding as a key public health priority for improving maternal and child health.
Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services Susan Ndjaleka said breastfeeding provides children with essential nutrition, strengthens immunity, protects against infections and malnutrition, and supports healthy growth and development.
Speaking during the commemoration, Ndjaleka stressed that breastfeeding should not be viewed as only a mother’s responsibility, but as a shared commitment involving families, communities, employers, healthcare workers and government institutions.
Photos: Ministry of Health and Social Services-Namibia
She called for expanded breastfeeding counselling services at health facilities, more breastfeeding-friendly workplaces, increased public awareness and stronger family support for mothers.
“Babies must be breastfed exclusively for the first six months of their life. It’s a must, it’s not a choice,” Ndjaleka said.
She added that after six months, children should be introduced to safe and nutritious complementary foods while breastfeeding continues.
The Deputy Minister reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strengthening maternal and child nutrition programmes, expanding breastfeeding support initiatives and creating sustainable systems that empower mothers.
UNICEF Namibia Country Representative Samuel Ocran encouraged fathers to take a more active role in supporting breastfeeding mothers, saying breastfeeding is a shared family responsibility.
“Breastfeeding is not only the mother’s responsibility. It is a family responsibility. It is a father’s responsibility,” Ocran said.
He added that fathers who support breastfeeding mothers are investing in the health, strength and future of their children.
Representing the Khomas Governor, Katutura East Councillor Richard Gaoseb also encouraged parents to prioritise breastfeeding and called for greater involvement of fathers in promoting children’s health and wellbeing.
One mother who shared her breastfeeding experience said the practice helped strengthen the bond between her and her baby while ensuring that the child received the necessary nutrients.
“The first time was a special moment and it helped me and my baby build a strong bond,” she said, adding that exclusive breastfeeding for six months provides many benefits for both mother and child.
The Ministry said World Breastfeeding Week serves as an opportunity to renew efforts to protect, promote and support breastfeeding as part of Namibia’s broader maternal and child health goals.
