Weaning practices amongst the Hausas

The weaning age amongst the Hausas was found to be 12-18 months, rather than between 22-24 months as enjoined in the Holy Quran. The reasons for weaning a child were found to include religion, the attainment of the traditional age of weaning, observed normal physical and mental developmental processes, onset of another pregnancy, severe illness and or death of the mother, and the husbands' unwillingness to observe the traditional abstinence from sexual intercourse during lactation. Introduction of supplementary feeds was between 5-9 months, and thin guinea-corn, millet or maize gruel is mainly used. This diet is deficient in energy, essential nutrients and proteins. The weaning practices were considered as well as suggestions for improvement outlined.