Key to this, are the collaborative efforts across government, civil society, business and individuals that are working to make this a reality, says the foundation.

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, adds the foundation.

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, says the foundation.

"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, says the foundation.

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, adds the foundation.

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, says the foundation.

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, says the foundation.

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, adds the foundation.

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, says the foundation.

"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, says the foundation.

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, adds the foundation.

"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."

For businesses, organisations and individuals interested in supporting the DO MORE FOUNDATION's World Food Day nutrition campaign, visit the website or contact their Fundraising Coordinator on [email protected] to partner.

For more information, visit www.domore.org.za. You can also follow the DO MORE FOUNDATION on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor