Factors Influencing Mixed Feeding Practices among Infants below 6 -Months in Wajir County, Kenya

Abstract

In Wajir County, around 749 infants under six months die annually. The 2014 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) revealed that just 32% of babies in this age group are exclusively breastfed, while many mothers introduce supplementary foods prematurely. This study aimed to examine the factors influencing mixed feeding practices among babies under six months in Wajir County. The study systematically examined infant feeding practices, assessed socio-cultural influences, evaluated maternal skill, and studied economic factors affecting mixed feeding. The research employed the Theory of Planned Behavior, the Interactive Breastfeeding Theory, and the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA). A descriptive cross-sectional design was utilized, focusing on a quantitative data collection approach. The study examined 802 mothers of infants under six months, utilizing a sample size of 260 individuals. Data was processed using SPSS version 26 for analysis. Data were analyzed using univariate analysis and this enabled the researcher to achieve descriptive statistics. The study found that 63.1% of mothers had low knowledge of mixed feeding practices, with a mean knowledge score of 6.8 (SD=1.7) out of 12. Significantly, 58.8% of mothers practicing mixed feeding were unemployed (χ2=109.780, p<0.001). 97% relied on market purchases for food, and 40.1% were moderately food insecure. Cultural factors played a role, with 81.3% reporting taboos affecting infant feeding (χ2=17.431, p=0.001). Despite recommendations, 79.8% introduced complementary foods at 6 months, while 20.2% introduced them earlier. Based on the findings, it can conclude that maternal knowledge of mixed feeding practices in Wajir County is generally low. Economic factors, particularly unemployment and food insecurity, significantly influence mixed feeding practices. Cultural beliefs and taboos play a substantial role in determining infant feeding choices. Despite health recommendations, a considerable proportion of mothers introduce complementary foods earlier than the recommended 6 months. These factors collectively contribute to suboptimal mixed feeding practices among infants below 6 months in the study area. The study therefore recommended that health authorities should intensify education programs to improve maternal knowledge of mixed feeding practices. Local governments need to launch economic empowerment initiatives to tackle unemployment and food insecurity. Community leaders should work together with health professionals to overcome cultural taboos affecting infant feeding. Healthcare providers ought to enhance counseling regarding the appropriate timing for introducing complementary foods. Policymakers should create targeted interventions that promote optimal mixed feeding practices, taking into account the unique socio-economic and cultural context of Wajir County.