Abstract

Despite active promotion, Uganda reports that 36% of children under 6 months are not
exclusively breastfed, impacting infant health. This study focuses on 428 interviews within
the Kampala district's informal sector, aiming to understand exclusive breastfeeding
practices among mothers with infants aged 0–5 months. Results indicated a 41.1% prevalence
of exclusive breastfeeding. Factors linked to this practice included attending antenatal care
at least four times, intending to breastfeed exclusively for six months or more, adopting
proper breastfeeding techniques, and the age of the infant. Notably, working in lower
positions was associated with a lower likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding.
Recommendations emphasize the importance of antenatal care in educating mothers about
exclusive breastfeeding's advantages, enabling informed decisions. Additionally, enforcing
maternity leave benefits outlined in Uganda's Employment Act within the informal sector can
support women in practicing exclusive breastfeeding.
Keywords: Exclusive breastfeeding, Children below 6 months, Antenatal care, Maternity
leave