World Breastfeeding Week 2025: What It Means and Why It Matters
- Danike Bouwer
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Every year from 1–7 August, countries across the globe celebrate World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) — a time to amplify the importance of breastfeeding and advocate for stronger systems of support. Here in South Africa, the South African Certified Lactation Consultants (SACLC) are proud to stand alongside the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) in championing this vital cause.
Who is WABA?
The World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) is a global network of individuals and organisations working to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding worldwide. Since 1992, WABA has coordinated World Breastfeeding Week in partnership with UNICEF, WHO, and thousands of grassroots organisations.
Each year, WABA announces a new theme to guide global campaigns. The theme for World Breastfeeding Week 2025 is: “Prioritise breastfeeding: create sustainable support systems”
#WBW2025 will centre on the environment and climate change, emphasising how supporting breastfeeding contributes to a more sustainable world. It will spotlight our collective responsibility to protect the planet by reducing the environmental impact of artificial feeding. This year’s theme aligns with Thematic Area 3 of the WBW-SDG 2030 campaign, focusing on sustainability and climate action.
Why Breastfeeding Matters: Globally and Locally
Breastfeeding is a global health imperative. According to WHO, optimal breastfeeding could save over 820,000 infant lives every year worldwide.
Here in South Africa:
Breastfeeding offers powerful protection against childhood illness, malnutrition, and maternal health issues.
Yet many families face barriers — from misinformation and stigma to workplace inflexibility and lack of skilled support.
With only a small percentage of babies exclusively breastfed for the recommended 6 months, there is urgent need for policy change, education, and community-based support.
These barriers contribute to early weaning and missed opportunities for maternal and infant health.
How South Africa Can Join the Movement
At SACLC, we believe every parent deserves to breastfeed without fear, pressure, or punishment. Here’s how you can take part in World Breastfeeding Week 2025:
✅ Attend SACLC Events
Throughout August, SACLC consultants around South Africa will be hosting:
Breastfeeding talks
Lactation support pop-ups
Online Q&As and webinars
Social media awareness campaigns
👉 Stay up to date on our events via our website and Instagram:
✅ Start Conversations That Matter
Whether you're a healthcare provider, parent, policymaker, or educator — your voice matters. Share a post, wear a badge, talk to your employer, or donate to a breastfeeding cause. Every action counts.
Breastfeeding Is Everyone’s Responsibility
This year’s WBW theme reminds us that breastfeeding is not just a personal decision — it’s a societal obligation. Let’s make 2025 the year South Africa becomes a leader in enabling breastfeeding — one supportive community, workplace, and family at a time.
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