​Rofhiwa Marubini 
Breastmilk is the food naturally designed to best meet the needs of human babies. It has all the necessary nutrients and antibodies, in just the right amounts which helps build and support your baby's immune system.
These antibodies provide protection against babies with long-lasting protection against conditions such as diabetes, cancer, asthma and malnutrition.
Dietician at Rahima Moosa Mother and Child hospital, in Johannesburg, Taryn Bortz, says breast milk does not only benefit the babies but plays a vital role in a women's life. 
"Breastfeeding reduces the risks of ovarian and breast cancer for mothers, and promotes bonding, helps with post-partum weight loss and decreases post-partum bleeding," explains Bortz.
A first-time mother Tsholofelo Mammeja (24), from Roodepoort enjoys breastfeeding her 18month son as it gives them time to bond. 
"When I breastfeed him, we look at each other in the eyes and I can see my son is enjoying it, you will see him smiling."
The Department of Health recommends exclusive breastfeeding for six months and then continued breastfeeding combined with solid foods for 2 years.
 With the COVID-19 in our mist, Nutrition Coordinator at the Tshwane District Health Service, Danielle Reyneke says evidence has shown that the virus is not transmitted through breast milk or by giving breast milk that has been expressed from a mother who is confirmed or suspected to have COVID-19.
"Mothers can protect their babies by breastfeeding and getting vaccinated when their turn comes, they should also continue to adhere to the non-pharmaceutical measures," says Reyneke.
The South African Breastmilk Reserve (SABR) urges mothers to donate breastmilk to those in need. 
The reserve says any healthy, lactating mother who has not received a blood transfusion in the last 12 months, does not smoke, does not regularly consume alcohol and not taking any medication is eligible for donating breast milk.​