By Adan Mohamed - Reporter
August 05, 2026 - Mandera County Government has emphasized its commitment to promoting breastfeeding as a cornerstone of child survival and maternal health during this year commemoration of World Breastfeeding Week, with the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health, Mumtaza Bishar, calling for stronger workplace support and intensified community awareness to help mothers breastfeed exclusively for the first six months.
Speaking during the county's World Breastfeeding Week celebrations, Mumtaza said Mandera has made encouraging progress in breastfeeding, with county data showing that breastfeeding practices compare favourably with many other counties across Kenya.
"Our breastfeeding indicators are encouraging. According to the Kenya Health Information System (KHIS), Mandera County records an average breastfeeding rate of more than 80 percent, which is a clear indication that we are making significant progress in protecting the health of our children," she said.
She noted that breastfeeding remains one of the most effective and affordable interventions for improving child survival, reducing childhood illnesses and ensuring healthy growth and development.
According to county nutrition data, more than 98 percent of children in Mandera are breastfed, while exclusive breastfeeding among infants under six months stands at about 68 percent, exceeding the national average. Health experts say exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months significantly reduces the risk of infections, malnutrition and infant mortality.
Despite the positive gains, the Health CECM acknowledged that several challenges continue to prevent mothers from breastfeeding exclusively for the recommended six months.
"The first challenge is structural. Many mothers returning to work do not have access to safe and private lactation spaces where they can breastfeed or express breast milk. As a county, we must invest in breastfeeding-friendly workplaces that allow mothers to continue breastfeeding even after maternity leave," Mumtaza said.
She also identified cultural beliefs and misconceptions as another major obstacle.
"Harmful practices such as introducing mixed feeding too early or believing that breast milk alone is insufficient continue to undermine exclusive breastfeeding. These misconceptions can only be addressed through sustained community education and behaviour change," she added.
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Mumtaza said the county with support from UNICEF, is implementing a Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health and Nutrition programme aimed at strengthening breastfeeding support through mother-to-mother support groups and Community Health Promoters (CHPs).
She explained that Community Health Promoters are being trained to provide household counselling and follow-up, while health facilities have been encouraged to conduct comprehensive breastfeeding assessments during antenatal and postnatal visits.
"Every mother attending our health facilities should receive counselling, breastfeeding assessment and continuous support. At the community level, our mother-to-mother support groups and Community Health Promoters must continue following up with families to ensure mothers are able to practice exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months," she said.
"As we mark World Breastfeeding Week, let us strengthen our health systems, eliminate cultural misconceptions and create supportive workplaces and communities. Together, we can ensure every child receives the best possible start in life through optimal breastfeeding," Mumtaza concluded.
World Breastfeeding Week is observed annually from August 1 to 7 to raise awareness of the health, nutritional and developmental benefits of breastfeeding. The campaign also advocates for stronger policies that protect, promote and support breastfeeding for every mother and child.