Online Reporter
Amos Mpofu, [email protected]
HEALTH experts have raised alarm over a growing trend in which mothers are increasingly opting for formula feeding from early infancy, warning that the shift away from breastfeeding could have serious consequences for babies’ health and development.
Although breastfeeding is globally recognised as the most effective way to nourish infants, many young mothers continue to face challenges that make exclusive breastfeeding difficult. Despite national campaigns promoting breastfeeding, gaps in support, misinformation and persistent cultural myths continue to undermine these efforts.
Speaking to Zimpapers, Umzingwane District nutritionist and certified lactation support provider, Ms Annie Msauki-Busumani, said one of the biggest obstacles facing nursing mothers is the lack of consistent support from healthcare professionals, family members and the wider community.
“Many women are left to navigate the challenges of breastfeeding on their own, leading to feelings of inadequacy and frustration,” she said.
One young mother, who requested anonymity, echoed this sentiment: “I was told to exclusively breastfeed, but no one explained how to do it or what to expect.”
Without reliable support systems, many women abandon breastfeeding early or turn to formula feeding — an outcome experts warn can compromise an infant’s health. According to the Zimbabwe National Breastfeeding Policy, exclusive breastfeeding rates remain low largely due to insufficient support services.
Zimbabwe also faces a shortage of trained lactation professionals, a challenge repeatedly highlighted by mothers and advocacy groups. Nompumelelo Siziba, a 28-year-old mother from Lupane, shared her experience.
“I had to travel far to see a lactation consultant, and even then, I had to wait weeks for an appointment.”
The International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) has also warned about the dangers of conflicting advice given to nursing mothers. While trained healthcare workers advocate exclusive breastfeeding, community members often promote traditional remedies such as nhova or gripe water for colic.
“Nhova is a traditional remedy made from various herbs and plants, believed to help digestion. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness or safety, and some herbs can be harmful to infants. Mothers must consult healthcare professionals before giving such remedies to their babies,” Ms Busumani said.
She added that conflicting advice on colic often worsens mothers’ anxiety.
“The issue of colic is another area where women receive mixed messages. While some healthcare workers recommend gripe water or other remedies, others advise against it. This conflicting information can lead to anxiety for new mothers.”
Specialist paediatrician Dr Alex Stevenson highlighted another commonly misunderstood issue — constipation in infants.
“Many mothers are unaware that it is normal for breastfed babies to poop less often. But if a baby has not passed stool for more than 7-10 days, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional,” he said.
A 25-year-old Bulawayo mother, who requested anonymity, added: “I thought my baby was just constipated, but it turned out he had an underlying medical condition.”
Cultural norms also play a major role in shaping women’s nutrition — and ultimately their milk production. In many households, women and children are often served less nutritious cuts of meat while men and guests receive the more nourishing portions. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also discouraged from eating nutrient-rich foods such as eggs, fish and leafy greens due to long-held beliefs that they may negatively affect the baby.
Thandi, a 30-year-old mother from Insiza, said: “I was told not to eat eggs because they would make my baby slow, but now I know it’s just a myth.”
Ms Busumani urged communities to re-evaluate harmful practices.
“It’s time for us to re-examine our cultural beliefs and prioritise the health and well-being of our children. We need to challenge traditions that put our children’s health at risk and adopt evidence-based practices. This includes promoting exclusive breastfeeding, ensuring nutritious food for women and children, and addressing the shortage of lactation support providers,” she said.
Research guided by WHO recommendations indicates that home visits and online consultations could bridge the gap in support. Home visits help specialists observe feeding techniques first-hand, while virtual consultations make assistance accessible to working mothers or those in remote areas.
“By working together, we can create a society that supports and empowers women to make informed decisions about their health and the health of their children,” said Ms Busumani.
