Abstract

PIP: Fieldwork conducted in 1989-91 among the Wagogo, a semipastoral people in central Tanzania, documented the cultural and social contexts of infant nutrition. 120 breast-feeding mothers were observed extensively and 291 mothers of 322 children attending a health center were interviewed. In this setting, repeated pregnancy and lactation are natural conditions for all adult women. Breast milk is perceived as an essential source of nutrition, energy, vigor, and strength. Lactation failure does not occur in this society. All infants nurse within a few hours of delivery and receive colostrum. The infant remains with the mother night and day, even when she is working in the fields. Breast feeding is on demand, generally in response to crying, and lasts for 2-3 years. Any changes in the quality of breast milk are viewed as associated with maternal disease or witchcraft due to jealousy. "Bad" milk is believed to cause diarrhea and withheld from the infant. In many cases, milk in one breast is perceived as bad and that breast is no longer used for feeding. Sexual intercourse is prohibited during lactation, and women who become pregnant before weaning are shamed. The progressive weakening of the child associated with the cessation of breast feeding at the time of a new pregnancy is viewed as a consequence of the breach of sexual taboos ant not recognized as malnutrition.