A top official of the Ugandan Ministry of Health, Samalie Namukose has warned men against sucking their wives’ breast.
Namukose said the breasts should be left for babies alone.
Namukose, who is principal nutritionist at the ministry, said she was shocked to learn that some cultures believe that the breasts belong to men, therefore do not give babies the chance to enjoy breastfeeding.
She says although exclusive breastfeeding is essential for babies in the first six months, many men are often uncomfortable with it and compete with the babies for the breast.
Namukose spoke during a meeting for cultural leaders organised by the Ministry of Health in commemoration of the World Breastfeeding week marked annually between August 1 and 7.
She said, “In some health facilities I visited, many women had wounds on their breasts and when I asked what caused this, they said the men demand for breasts and cause those wounds. This is very serious and must stop.”
Namukose said children who are not breastfed often fall sick, or even die, do not grow to their full potential and lag behind in school. (Photo: BBC)