<p>Background: The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is considered one of the most successful international efforts to protect, promote and support breastfeeding. The initiative has proven impact, increasing the likelihood of babies being exclusively breastfed for six months. Official designation as Baby Friendly requires careful assessment completed by a trained external team to confirm that the institution is truly carrying out all Ten Steps of successful breastfeeding and conforming to the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (BMS).The implementation of these principles are however challenging for facilities as it requires &ldquo / strategic planning, implementation and maintaining change&rdquo / within the facilities. Aim: To assess the factors influencing the implementation of BFHI principles in non accredited MOU` s in the Metropole region of the Western Cape.</p>

<p>Background: The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is considered one of the most successful international efforts to protect, promote and support breastfeeding. The initiative has proven impact, increasing the likelihood of babies being exclusively breastfed for six months. Official designation as Baby Friendly requires careful assessment completed by a trained external team to confirm that the institution is truly carrying out all Ten Steps of successful breastfeeding and conforming to the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (BMS).The implementation of these principles are however challenging for facilities as it requires &ldquo / strategic planning, implementation and maintaining change&rdquo / within the facilities. Aim: To assess the factors influencing the implementation of BFHI principles in non accredited MOU` s in the Metropole region of the Western Cape.</p>

Magister Public Health - MPH / Background: The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is considered one of the most successful international efforts to protect, promote and support breastfeeding. The initiative has proven impact, increasing the likelihood of babies being exclusively breastfed for six months. Official designation as Baby Friendly requires careful assessment completed by a trained external team to confirm that the institution is truly carrying out all Ten Steps of successful breastfeeding and conforming to the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (BMS).The implementation of these principles are however challenging for facilities as it requires "strategic planning, implementation and maintaining change" within the facilities. Aim: To assess the factors influencing the implementation of BFHI principles in non accredited MOU` s in the Metropole region of the Western Cape. / South Africa