City Health initiative enhances breastfeeding support for new mothers

For many new mothers, bringing a baby home is filled with excitement, but it can also be one of life’s most demanding transitions. Sleepless nights, physical recovery and the pressure of caring for a newborn often make breastfeeding more challenging than many expect. A City Health initiative in Cape Town is helping to ease that burden. By placing trained Infant Feeding Counsellors in public health clinics, the programme is giving mothers the practical support and confidence they need during the crucial early weeks after childbirth. The results are already showing encouraging improvements in exclusive breastfeeding rates across participating facilities. The City announced the progress as it joins countries around the world in marking World Breastfeeding Week, observed annually from 1 to 7 August, with this year’s theme focusing on strengthening proven breastfeeding support systems for a more sustainable future. Personal guidance is changing outcomes The Infant Feeding Counsellor Project places trained workers through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) in selected clinics, where they provide one-on-one assistance to expectant mothers and women who have recently given birth. Their role extends beyond simply promoting breastfeeding. Counsellors offer practical advice on infant feeding, encourage mothers facing challenges such as concerns about milk supply or breastfeeding discomfort, and identify those who may require additional medical or emotional support, including women experiencing postnatal anxiety or depression. This personalised approach has contributed to a 6.5% increase in exclusive breastfeeding rates across the project’s ten participating clinics. Some facilities have recorded particularly significant improvements: Masiphumelele Clinic recorded a 31% increase Langa Clinic improved by 26% Adriaanse Clinic achieved a 22.5% increase Valhalla Park Clinic recorded a 14% improvement These figures highlight how accessible, community-based support can have a meaningful impact on maternal and infant health. Investing in healthier beginnings According to the City, proper nutrition during infancy plays a vital role in healthy growth, development and long-term wellbeing. Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham, said breastfeeding can be difficult, especially during the first weeks after birth, making practical support essential for mothers navigating the experience. She noted that the counselling programme is helping women build confidence while giving babies the healthiest possible start in life. Plans to grow the programme Although the project currently operates in just 10 of the City’s 89 clinics, municipal officials believe its success demonstrates the value of expanding breastfeeding support services. The City plans to strengthen the initiative by extending counsellors’ contracts to three years and broadening their training to ensure more consistent care for families over time. Officials also intend to continue building partnerships across municipal services to create lasting support networks for parents. Libraries become spaces for family learning One of the programme’s most innovative partnerships brings healthcare beyond clinic walls. City Health’s Infant Feeding Counsellors work alongside the City’s Library and Information Services to host eight-week antenatal and postnatal support groups at selected libraries. These sessions cover maternal and child health, introduce parents to digital literacy skills and encourage reading and talking to babies from pregnancy through early childhood. The initiative reflects a growing understanding that healthy child development is supported not only through nutrition but also through learning, communication and strong family connections. A community effort with lasting impact Cape Town’s breastfeeding support initiative shows that relatively simple interventions can produce meaningful public health improvements when delivered consistently and compassionately. Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join! Also read: Mothers who breastfeed at work are more productive Picture: Ayla Meinberg / Unsplash The post City Health initiative enhances breastfeeding support for new mothers appeared first on Cape Town ETC .