Andisiwe Ciya 
 
Breastfeeding within one hour of birth has declined from 73.3% to 62.4% between the 2023/24 and 2024/25 financial years, while breastfeeding rates at 14 weeks have stagnated at 47.3%. 
This is according to statistics from the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH), raising an alarming concern over the nutritional wellbeing of infants and the urgent action needed from all sectors of society to ensure that children receive all the nutrients needed from their first moments of life. 
To address this, the GDoH has implemented several key interventions including the establishment of human Milk Bank at Steve Biko Academic, Kalafong, Sebokeng, and Leratong Hospitals, in partnership with the South African Breastmilk Reserve. These facilities provide donated breastmilk to vulnerable infants in postnatal wards and neonatal intensive care units, aiming to reduce early neonatal and postnatal morbidity and mortality.
The Department has also ensured the establishment of Kangaroo Mother and Child Units across hospitals in the province to provide a platform where mothers get to bond with their premature babies by visiting them while still admitted to not only breastfeed them but express for them as well. The Kangaroo Mother and Child Units enable babies to fully develop before they can be discharged.
In addition, the GDoH is also working to strengthen breastfeeding support systems across all public health facilities and encourages the creation of supportive environments for breastfeeding mothers in public spaces, workplaces, and religious settings.
As part of World Breastfeeding Week (1–7 August 2025), celebrated under the theme "Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems," the department is highlighting the multifaceted benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers.
Compared to store-bought formula, breastmilk is superior. It is the optimal food for infants - safe, clean, and rich in antibodies that protect against childhood illnesses. It contains a unique balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive components tailored to the baby's developing digestive system.
"It is vital for mothers to breastfeed, as breast milk offers perfect nutrition for infants and is crucial for strengthening the mother-child bond.
"The unique composition of breastmilk not only fosters healthy growth but also enhances cognitive development and boosts immunity, significantly reducing the risk of infections and illnesses," said Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko.
Moreover, the GDoH has urged partners and families to encourage and support mothers of newborn babies to breastfeed. Through encouragement, shared responsibilities, and emotional presence, women are able to be empowered to breastfeed with confidence and comfort.
Through these efforts, the Department aims to reverse the declining trends and ensure that every child receives the best possible start in life beginning with the nourishment and protection offered by breastmilk.