In 1982, a study of health worker knowledge, attitudes and practices with respect to breastfeeding was undertaken in Kenya. A breastfeeding promotion campaign ensued, in which training of health workers was a major component. In 1989, the impact of this campaign was evaluated through a survey examining changes in health worker knowledge, attitudes and practices. The survey showed that considerable improvements in knowledge and substantial improvements in hospital practices have occurred, although none of these could be attributed to any single element of the breastfeeding promotion programme. Particularly undesirable practices which were common in 1982, such as separation of mother and baby, formula feeding and use of bottles have virtually disappeared from Kenyan hospitals. Recommendations regarding future programme directions are made.

Background: Lack of knowledge, and poor attitudes and practices among rural women have been shown to negatively influence maternal, infant and young child nutrition outcomes as well as child health and cognitive development. Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of community-based nutrition on infant nutrition. Methods: A mixed method approach using a structured questionnaire to collect quantitative data (n=234) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) for qualitative data was used in Narok County, Kenya. Results: About 57% of the participants received nutrition and health information from hospital trained health person- nel. Whereas most women indicated having attended antenatal clinics, very few delivered in the hospital (17%). Exclusive breastfeeding knowledge was below 50%, although not statistically significant (p=0.584) across the education spectrum as opposed to identification of malnutrition signs, which was significant (p<0.05). Whereas 74% of the participants had knowledge about signs of malnutrition, only 58% could identify the causes. Rating for complementary feeding among the study participants was about 61% for introduction of complementary foods and 80% for frequency of feeding. Vitamin A supplementation knowledge, antenatal clinic attendance and type of waste disposal were statistically significant (p<0.05) in relation to education level of the study participants. Conclusion: This study reveals the need to educate rural women for increased understanding and practice of appropriate infant and nutrition care through sustainable and effective essential nutrition actions. Keywords: Community; nutrition; breastfeeding; complementary foods; health; practice.