Table 2 Recommendations to improve exclusive breastfeeding support in health facilities in Malawi

● Strengthening the knowledge base of both pregnant and postpartum women

● Development of problem based learning materials for healthcare workers to facilitate breastfeeding support.

● Engagement and empowerment of other family members on breastfeeding practices and their role in supporting a breastfeeding woman.

● Task-shifting the implementation of breastfeeding support to trained lay healthcare workers to avoid overwhelming the nursing staff.

● Strengthening implementation of policies on breastfeeding and ensuring adequate funding to implement outlined activities.