‘We Can’t Afford Good Meals for Exclusive Breastfeeding, ‘  Lactating Women Cry Out

Lactating women in Bauchi State have expressed concerns about their ability to afford a balanced diet to sustain exclusive breastfeeding due to the rising cost of foodstuff.

Mrs. Nuratu Maigari, a 28-year-old mother, said, “I fear that this age-long tradition of breastfeeding a baby for at least six months exclusively, may not continue due to the present economic hardship.”

Another mother, Mrs. Jamila Usman, stated, “I will have to start introducing water for my baby. I cannot do exclusive breastfeeding as I was advised during my antenatal.”

However, Mrs. Talatu Mahmoud, who planted vegetables in preparation for her baby’s arrival, said, “I will simply add all my vegetables which are very important for a breastfeeding mother.”

Despite the challenges, the Federal Low-Cost Primary Health Centre recorded an increase in exclusive breastfed babies in June and July 2024, indicating that mothers are adhering to campaigns on exclusive breastfeeding.

(NAN)