Investing in Young Children’s Nutrition Can Build a Stronger South Africa

Good nutrition in the earliest years of life is one of the most powerful investments a country can make in its future. This National Nutrition Week (09 – 15 October) and World Food Day (16 October), the DO MORE FOUNDATION (DMF) is drawing attention to the role of good nutrition in shaping children’s ability to learn and succeed in life. And key to this, are the collaborative efforts across government, civil society, business and individuals that are working to make this a reality.

Why nutrition matters for learning

Research shows that stunting in early childhood, caused by chronic malnutrition, is one of the strongest predictors of a child’s future learning and earning potential. During the first five years, when 90% of brain development takes place, children need regular, nourishing meals to learn, grow, and thrive.

Targeting early nutrition interventions, such as feeding schemes, nutrition education, and growth monitoring, in under-resourced ECD centres can support practitioners, caregivers, and parents in providing their children balanced diets that promote holistic growth.

“Investing in nutrition is an investment in South Africa’s future,” says Dr Jessica Ronassen, DMF’s Advocacy Lead. “When children have access to nutritious food, they are better able to engage in learning, develop critical skills, and thrive both in the classroom and beyond.”

ECD practitioners: champions of nutrition and care

ECD practitioners are on the frontlines of nurturing young learners. Every school day, they provide early learning, essential meals and nurturing care. They know that a child who eats well learns better, grows stronger, and is more likely to succeed later in life.

This makes ECD centres a vital entry point for reaching young children with consistent daily nutrition. Yet, many face real challenges, with subsidies for young children not keeping pace with food costs. Despite these hurdles, practitioners remain committed to ensuring that children in their care receive the best possible start – demonstrating both dedication and resilience.

When they are equipped with nutrition literacy and practical resources, ECD practitioners can empower families and communities to make informed choices that support children’s health and early learning outcomes.

All sectors can make a difference

Malnutrition remains a complex issue in South Africa, where children face both undernutrition and rising rates of obesity. Research shows that 1 in 4 children under the age of five are stunted and 1 in 8 are obese. With the cost of living rising, and nearly half of households living on less than R1,000 a month, affordable and healthy meals can be out of reach.

Since its founding in 2017, DMF has worked with local ECD partners in communities to strengthen early nutrition. Through a combination of food provision, partnerships, and education, the Foundation is helping to close the nutrition gap.

In the past year, together with partners, DMF delivered over 7.5 million meals of its specially formulated DoMore Porridge to nearly 35,000 children in 37 communities. This porridge, designed for children under five, supports healthy growth and brain development during the crucial early years.

“DMF’s support, through parent / caregiver support and nutrition programmes, plays a vital role in ensuring that children at our ECD centres receive the daily nourishment they need”, says Nozibusiso Zikhaki of Lulamaphiko in Pongola, northern KwaZulu-Natal. “This support strengthens early learning, promotes healthy development, and helps create a more dignified and supportive environment for both children and practitioners.”

How to get involved

National Nutrition Week is a reminder that investing in children’s nutrition is not just about addressing hunger – it is about unlocking their potential. Well-nourished children are more likely to succeed in school, participate fully in society, and contribute to South Africa’s future prosperity.

By working together – government, business, civil society, and communities – South Africa can turn the tide on malnutrition and create a brighter future for all its children.

“This is a moment of opportunity,” says Jabu Mthembu-Dlamini, DMF’s Young Child Programmes Lead. “We know what works, and we have incredible practitioners, communities, and partners already making a difference. We have the chance to ensure that every child, no matter their background, has the nourishment they need to thrive.”