Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the gold standard for infant nutrition, offering unmatched health benefits for both babies and mothers. Yet in many low- and middle-income countries, including Kenya, significant challenges continue to hinder exclusive breastfeeding practices. According to the International Breastfeeding Journal (2022), between 60 and 90 percent of mothers in these regions report insufficient milk supply as a major barrier. This issue is often compounded by cultural beliefs, maternal health complications, and a lack of support systems, leaving many women to navigate breastfeeding in isolation and under pressure.
Maryann Muthoni’s experience reflects the silent struggles faced by countless mothers. She endured nipple dermatitis, a painful condition that made each breastfeeding session agonizing. “Every time the baby would latch, it became a nightmare,” she recalls. Despite the discomfort, Muthoni persevered for six months, driven by her commitment to her child’s well-being. When her baby refused formula, she was forced to continue breastfeeding, adding financial strain to her already difficult journey. Her story highlights the resilience of mothers who push through physical and emotional pain, often without adequate guidance or resources.
Chelimo Njoroge, a mother of two and a breast milk donor for three years, shares a different but equally revealing perspective. “I learned a lot from my own experience, especially about irregular nipple shapes,” she explains. “For many moms, latching can be difficult if the nipple isn’t optimal.” Chelimo emphasizes that without proper information and techniques, breastfeeding can become a painful and frustrating experience. After the birth of her second child, she discovered she was an oversupplier, producing more milk than her baby needed. However, she faced a lack of facilities for screening and donation, which prompted her to advocate for improved infrastructure. “I realized I didn’t have space for my breast milk and wanted to help others in need,” she says, underscoring the need for systems that support both donors and recipients.
Kenya is one of the few African countries with a human milk bank, located at Pumwani Maternity Hospital in Nairobi. The facility plays a vital role in collecting, screening, and distributing donor milk, primarily for premature and low-birthweight infants. Despite its importance, the milk bank faces limitations in supply and infrastructure, restricting its reach and impact. Chelimo believes that establishing a national breast milk reserve would help create a sustainable supply and demand system. She also calls for investment in essential resources such as breast pumps, cold storage units, and educational programs to empower mothers and normalize breastfeeding.
In a progressive move, Kenya recently introduced the Breastfeeding Mothers Bill 2024, aimed at promoting and protecting the rights of nursing mothers in the workplace. The legislation mandates the provision of lactation rooms and paid breaks for breastfeeding, addressing the needs of mothers in both formal and informal sectors. This bill represents a significant step toward reducing stigma and creating supportive environments for breastfeeding women.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Recent data from the Kenya Ministry of Health reveals that three out of ten mothers in the country do not breastfeed at all, relying solely on bottle-feeding. This trend underscores the urgent need for public awareness campaigns, community-based support systems, and accessible healthcare guidance. Breastfeeding is not just a personal choice—it is a public health priority. Stories like those of Maryann and Chelimo illustrate the determination of Kenyan mothers and the systemic gaps that must be addressed. With continued advocacy, infrastructure development, and legislative support, Kenya can move toward a future where every mother is empowered to breastfeed safely and confidently, and every child receives the best possible start in life.