Health officials have warned that exclusive breastfeeding rates remain low, particularly in the Khomas Region, where the exclusive breastfeeding rate is only 25%.
The low percentage is attributed to urban lifestyles and early return to work.
This came to light as Namibia marks Breastfeeding Week under the theme, "Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems for the Future."
The event was held at Central Hospital's maternity ward, a place described by many as the starting point of life, where breastfeeding mothers and health officials gathered for the commemoration.
Nationally, 49% of infants aged 0 to 5 months are exclusively breastfed, while early initiation of breastfeeding stands at 63.6%.
Continued breastfeeding also declines sharply, with only 36% of children aged 12 to 23 months still being breastfed. Meanwhile, 34.1% of children are bottle-fed.
Health officials have urged fathers to play a more active role in supporting breastfeeding mothers. They also called on families, employers, and communities to help create an environment where women can breastfeed for the recommended period.
Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Health and Social Services Suzan Ndjaleka explained.
"Whoever you are—a father, a cousin, a mother, or what they call a 'baby daddy'—please provide moral support. Our mothers cannot breastfeed or care for their babies effectively while they are burdened by other worries."
Acting Deputy Director of the Family Health Division, Marjorie van Wyk, highlighted the importance of breastfeeding.
"The early initiation that I talked about is the foundation for child survival – good nutrition and brain development are very, very important.”
UNICEF Namibia Country Representative Samuel Ocran revealed that while 88% of Namibian children are breastfed, only 49% are exclusively breastfed for the recommended first six months.
He noted that it is an indication that many babies are introduced to other foods too early.
“But behind these statuses is a mother who may be struggling. A family searching for support and a child who deserves a better chance. So, fathers, though you are not here, I believe you are listening to me on air. Please remember, you have a role to play. It is not the responsibility of the mother alone. Let us remember that.”
Representing the Khomas Governor, Katutura East Councillor Richard Gaoseb noted that mothers significantly outnumbered fathers at the event, saying they should be equally present and involved in initiatives promoting children's health and well-being.