South Africa will join the globe as it commemorates World Breastfeeding Week 2022 under the theme: “Step Up For Breastfeeding: Educate and Support”. Held in the first week of August, the Department of Health commemorates this week as part of its public health mandate to raise awareness of the value of breastfeeding to expecting and new mothers whilst also developing measures to safeguard breastfeeding. Whilst the rate of exclusive breastfeeding has improved in the democratic era, there are concerns surrounding whether South Africa will reach global targets by 2025 (WHO - 50%) and the decline of adequate breastfeeding support for families.

Guest: Dr Leslie Bamford - Child Health Specialist at the National Department of Health