By Our Reporter
Bostwana’s President Duma Boko has unveiled a three-month social grant program to support breastfeeding mothers and their newborns.
Announced on Friday last week during his first Kgotla meeting in Mahalapye, the initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to enhancing maternal and child welfare.
As part of the program, mothers will receive a P300 monthly allowance approximately $21 for three months to help address their breastfeeding needs. The grant aims to ensure that both mothers and infants receive essential care during this critical period.
In addition to the allowance, newborns will be provided with essential items such as diapers and milk formula for the first three months, reducing the financial strain on families during early child-rearing stages.
The program is part of a broader government strategy to promote public health by encouraging breastfeeding and ensuring proper nutrition in infants’ formative months.
President Boko emphasized that the initiative seeks to alleviate financial stress, allowing mothers to focus on bonding with their babies. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to exploring further measures to support families with young children.
The announcement has been widely praised by mothers’ groups and child health advocates as a significant step toward addressing maternal health challenges and improving social support systems.
As the program rolls out, it is expected to positively impact maternal well-being and child development, marking a key milestone in Botswana’s public health advancements.
Story Credit: Botswana Youth Magazine