Determinants of early initiation of breastfeeding among mothers of children aged 0–24 months in Mogadishu, Somalia: a community-based cross-sectional study

Objective To determine the prevalence of early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) and its associated factors among mothers of children aged 0–24 months in Mogadishu, Somalia. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in six selected districts of Mogadishu from March to June 2026. Structured interviews were completed with 638 mothers. Analysis included 561 mothers who had ever breastfed. Multivariable logistic regression identified factors associated with EIBF. Results EIBF prevalence was 82.7%. Lower odds were observed among mothers without formal education (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.16, 0.53), those attending 2–3 antenatal care visits (AOR 0.17, 95% CI 0.06, 0.46) or four or more visits (AOR 0.09, 95% CI 0.03, 0.27), those without breastfeeding counselling (AOR 0.28, 95% CI 0.15, 0.53), and those delivering by caesarean section (AOR 0.13, 95% CI 0.07, 0.25). Household size of eight or more members and absence of prelacteal feeding were associated with higher odds. Conclusions Although EIBF was common, 17.3% initiated breastfeeding after one hour. Strengthening breastfeeding counselling, post-caesarean support and efforts to prevent prelacteal feeding may improve timely initiation.