| dc.description.abstract | Weaning, the process of introducing complementary foods alongside breastfeeding, is critical to a child's development. However, early weaning practices—often occurring before the recommended six months—pose significant health risks, including malnutrition, stunting, and increased child mortality. In Kenya, early weaning remains a prevalent issue, especially in Kisumu County, where stunting rates are notably high. This study aimed to identify factors influencing early weaning among children aged 6–24 months attending the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) clinic at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH). Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 400 mothers.
Findings revealed that 65% of mothers introduced complementary foods between four and five months, primarily due to perceptions of insufficient breast milk, work-related constraints, and family influence. Furthermore, 55% of mothers believed mixed feeding benefitted child health, though these practices often contradicted WHO guidelines. Analysis also highlighted that higher maternal education positively correlated with exclusive breastfeeding adherence, while cultural beliefs and conflicting advice from healthcare providers sometimes led to early weaning. The study concludes that targeted education and policy interventions, such as workplace breastfeeding support and community-based health programs, could help address these socio-economic, cultural, and knowledge-based barriers. By promoting exclusive breastfeeding, these strategies align with Kenya’s goals to reduce child mortality and enhance nutrition. Ethical considerations, including informed consent, anonymity, and confidentiality, were strictly followed | en_US |
