Celebrating Findings in Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices: Insights from the ZimLAC 2024 Rural Assessment

The Zimbabwe Livelihoods Assessment Committee (ZimLAC) 2024 Rural Livelihoods Assessment highlights commendable findings in Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices in Zimbabwe. While there are areas requiring urgent attention, several positive trends deserve recognition and celebration. The World Health Organisation recommends optimal IYCF practices which include the early initiation of exclusive breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by nutritionally adequate and safe complementary foods, while continuing breastfeeding for up to two years of age or beyond.

Remarkable Increase in Continued Breastfeeding

One of the standout findings from the assessment is the significant rise in the proportion of children breastfed beyond one year. With 80% of children now continuing breastfeeding, this marks a substantial improvement from 56% reported in 2023. Notably, Matabeleland South has seen a remarkable increase from 51% in the previous year to 85% in 2024. This progress reflects the effectiveness of community education and support initiatives, fostering a greater understanding among parents and caregivers of the long-term benefits of continued breastfeeding for child health and nutrition.

High Rates of Early Initiation of Breastfeeding

The assessment also reported that 86% of children were put to the breast within the first hour of birth, demonstrating strong adherence to WHO guidelines. Provinces like Mashonaland Central and Mashonaland East, with impressive rates of 92%, are setting a benchmark for early breastfeeding practices. This early initiation is crucial for enhancing infant survival rates and ensuring optimal health outcomes.

 Encouraging Consumption of Nutrient-Rich Foods

About 54.8% of children aged 6 to 23 months consumed vegetables and fruits in the 24 hours prior to the survey, a notable increase from 42.7% in the previous year. Furthermore, provinces such as Manicaland, reported that 49.6% of children consumed Vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables, while Mashonaland East reported 47% of children consuming these vital foods. These findings indicate effective local initiatives promoting the access and consumption of diverse, nutrient-dense foods, which are essential for children’s growth and development.

Conclusion: Building on Findings

The findings regarding breastfeeding practices and the consumption of nutrient-rich foods are commendable and should be celebrated. These insights provide significant data that will help inform future initiatives aimed at improving IYCF practices across Zimbabwe. By continuing to build on these findings, we can foster a healthier generation, ensuring that every child receives the nutrition needed for their growth and development. Let us acknowledge these positive developments and encourage ongoing efforts to further enhance optimal IYCF practices, ultimately leading to improved child health and survival in Zimbabwe.