Breastfeeding is important for the health and well being of infants. WHO recommends
globally, exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months and thereafter, adequate and safe
complementary foods to be introduced and baby to be breastfed for up to 2 years of age
or beyond. WHO Global Data Bank (1996), reported that only 35% children exclusively
breastfed, and only 19% in Africa. Exclusive breastfeeding in Namibia is very low, at
26%. A Household Survey conducted in peri-urban area of Oshakati and Ondangwa in
North West Region Namibia in 1991, found breastfeeding practices to be very poor. Men
as fathers being less supportive were among the factors seen contributing to poor
breastfeeding practice. In order to explore the role of married and single men whether in
hindering or promoting breastfeeding patterns, I conducted an explorative, qualitative
study. The study was designed to assess the group perception and view to appropriate
breastfeeding patterns, explore the cultural beliefs of men on breastfeeding, attitudes of
men towards breastfeeding and roles and actions of men that support or hinder
breastfeeding.