GABORONE, Botswana — The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is marking World Breastfeeding Week, observed annually from August 1–7, by calling on governments, healthcare providers, employers, communities, and families to strengthen support for breastfeeding across the region.
In a statement recognizing the global awareness week, SADC emphasized that breastfeeding plays a vital role in improving the health and well-being of both infants and mothers. The regional organization urged member states to expand evidence-based policies and programs that enable mothers to breastfeed successfully, whether at home, in healthcare settings, or in the workplace.
SADC highlighted the need for stronger workplace protections that allow mothers to continue breastfeeding after returning to work. The organization also encouraged healthcare systems to improve access to breastfeeding education, counseling, and postnatal support services to ensure mothers receive the guidance they need during the early stages of child development.
In addition, SADC called on communities and families to play a greater role in supporting breastfeeding mothers by fostering environments that encourage accurate information and practical assistance.
The regional body noted that improving breastfeeding support requires coordinated action from governments, employers, healthcare professionals, and civil society organizations. Such collaboration, it said, can help remove barriers that prevent mothers from exclusively breastfeeding during the recommended period and continuing breastfeeding as children grow.
World Breastfeeding Week is observed each year to raise awareness of the health, nutritional, and developmental benefits of breastfeeding while encouraging policies that improve maternal and child health. Through its message this year, SADC reaffirmed its commitment to promoting healthier families and strengthening public health systems throughout Southern Africa by supporting initiatives that make breastfeeding more accessible and sustainable for all mothers.