Greater Accra Region has emerged as the area with the lowest rate of exclusive breastfeeding in Ghana, recording just 43 percent, according to the Regional Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service (GHS).

A Public Health Nurse at the directorate, Charity Sikanku, disclosed the figures during the launch of activities to mark Breastfeeding month.

According to adomonline.com report on August 4, 2025, she blamed the low rate on the demanding work schedules of mothers in the capital city, which make it difficult for them to commit to breastfeeding.

In a stark contrast, the Savannah Region emerged as the area with the highest rate of 78 percent exclusive breastfeeding.

Sikanku urged employers to create breastfeeding corners in workplaces to make it easier for nursing mothers to feed their babies.

She said that such initiatives would reduce reliance on baby formula and help prevent illnesses associated with the early introduction of alternative feeding.

“There is also an economic strain on mothers who do not practice exclusive breastfeeding, as they end up spending more money on baby formulas,” she noted.

She further called for an extension of maternity leave to allow mothers have adequate time to breastfeed their babies exclusively for the recommended six months.

Sikanku warned that the low breastfeeding rate in Accra could impact children’s academic performance, citing evidence that children in the Savannah Region tend to be healthier and perform better in school due to the benefits of breast milk.

“Babies in the Savannah Region often look healthier and perform better academically, and this is closely linked to the impact of breast milk on their development,” she indicated.

She also dismissed myths, such as claims that breastfeeding causes sagging breasts, describing them as misconceptions that deter mothers from adopting the practice.

The Public Health Nurse concluded by stressing the need for education, community support, and strong policies to promote exclusive breastfeeding, in line with the World Health Organisation’s guidelines.

MRA/VPO

Meanwhile, watch the trailer to GhanaWeb’s yet-to-air documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures below: