Fathers perceptions and personal experiences of Complementary feeding of children 6 to 23 months in south-western Zimbabwe

Abstract

Background: The role of fathers in infant and young child feeding has not been explored in Zimbabwe. To date, local research studies on the role of parents in infant and young child feeding have focused more on the mothers than the fathers, and more on breastfeeding than complementary feeding practices, which begin from 6 months of age.

Purpose of study: To explore the knowledge and extent of involvement of fathers in the complementary feeding of children 6 to 23 months in Zimbabwe.

Method: Through a qualitative approach, 10 fathers with children aged 6 to 23 months participated in the study. Local key informants were used to validate information given by fathers. Thematic analysis was used to identify emergent themes.

Results: There has been a notable change in behaviour among the fathers in comparison to what they did 10 years ago. For example, they support their wives with household activities such as playing with the child, fetching water and firewood in bulk and cooking simple meals for their children, though the latter was generally reported as being done only during the mothers’ absence. Some of the fathers however, are still mindful of what the predominant culture defines as a father’s role in child feeding and thus only do selective activities.

Major conclusion: This qualitative study, a first of its kind, delved into some of the experiences and perceptions of fathers in the complementary feeding of infants 6 to 23 months in Zimbabwe. Rich exploratory insights into the subject matter have been provided and can thus be expanded upon in future research.