Table 1 Probe Questions: Translated from Swahili with emphasis on maintaining cultural aspects

1. What benefits does the baby get with a close and loving relationship with both of his parents?

2. Why do fathers need to be close to the baby and spend time with him/her?

3. When is the best time, for fathers to interact with their babies?

4. Can a baby who breastfeeds very frequently enjoy a satisfying relationship with his father?

5. Are there any rewarding times for fathers to spend with their baby?

6. Why does the support of a baby’s father help the mother/infant breastfeeding relationship to succeed?

7. How common is it for the father to head off discouragement, deflect negative comments from friends and relatives, and help calm a fussy baby, and then bring the new mother food and drink while she is breastfeeding?

8. How often does the baby’s father remind the new mother that breastfeeding is one of the most important things she can do to get their baby off to a good start in life?

9. How often do father’s raise options of feeding when breastfeeding difficulties arise and initiate hospital consultation/expert opinion?

10. How useful is it for the father to attend meetings or clinics with other fathers for health education on exclusive breastfeeding?