Enjoying the Free Menu? Discoursing the Barriers to Exclusive Breastfeeding for Improved Maternal and Child Health in Tanzania: A Review of Evidence

ABSTRACT Background Despite the emphasised benefits of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) among pregnant and breastfeeding mothers being recognised globally, its practice is still low among developing countries, including Tanzania. Several barriers to EBF in Tanzania have been detailed but lack a comprehensive approach. This study provides comprehensive evidence of the barriers to EBF, drawing from existing studies in Tanzania. Methods This review was conducted using search queries in several databases, including PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus and Web of Science. The review included qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods studies written in English addressing EBF in Tanzania. The critical appraisal skills programme checklist was used to assess the quality of studies while thematic analysis was used to analyse the data for each identified study. Result Twenty‐three studies (23) from 10 regions met inclusion criteria, including eight qualitative studies, nine cross‐sectional studies, four mixed methods approaches, and two quantitative studies. All the studies reported maternal, infant and social‐environmental to EBF practices in Tanzania. Conclusion Though this review has shown evidence of barriers to EBF, further research is needed, especially on factors influencing EBF practices in Tanzania.