Exploring Multiple Barriers to Proper Child Feeding Practices in Rural Districts of Ethiopia

Abstract

Infants' and young children's health and development rely on optimal feeding techniques. Malnutrition is the leading cause of preventable illness and death in infants and early childhood. This impact is mostly significant in low- and middle-income countries, where childhood illness and mortality rates have risen considerably. To explore the barriers to child feeding practices in the rural Gamo zone, south Ethiopia, from primary caregivers and different key individuals' perspectives. A phenomenological qualitative study approach with a purposive sampling technique was carried out to explore the barriers and facilitators of child feeding practices in the study area from August 14 to September 10, 2023. Data was collected from fathers, health extension workers, the health development army, religious leaders, and community elders who reside in rural communities of the Gamo zone. Three focus group discussions, including 8–10 participants per group with females and three with males until data saturation. A total of 51 discussants and 12 key informants participated in the study. The following barriers were identified from the study. Limited income and employment opportunities, lack of property ownership, limited maternal and husband education, and lack of knowledge about proper child feeding practices are among the factors leading to inadequate nutrition for children. Large family sizes, marriage-related factors like polygamy, early marriage, limited freedom of partner choice, and gender inequalities can affect necessary support for appropriate child feeding practices and negatively impact children's nutrition. Moreover, cultural norms, religious beliefs, lack of awareness regarding the husband's income, and lack of support from family members or communities were identified as barriers that influence child feeding practices. The study unveiled three key themes that impede the adoption of appropriate child feeding practices: economic status, demographic conditions, and sociocultural aspects that affect the feeding practices of children. Effective interventions to improve child feeding practices must consider and address these identified barriers.