In South Africa, where poverty affects 62% of children and 27% suffer from chronic malnutrition, addressing children’s nutritional needs in the early stages of life is critical.
Newborns and toddlers experience rapid growth and development, making adequate nutrition essential for their physical and cognitive health. In response to this urgent need, FoodForward SA and the Philani Maternal, Child Health, and Nutrition Trust launched the Mother and Child Nutrition Programme in May 2023.
The programme aims to combat malnutrition through a combination of direct support and educational initiatives. Philani’s mentor mothers are instrumental in identifying at-risk families, providing them with crucial nutrition education, and monitoring their progress.
FoodForward SA complements these efforts by delivering nutritious food parcels to the identified households.
With six clinics in the Western Cape and two in the Eastern Cape, the programme reaches families across a wide area. The impact has been profound, as evidenced by the experiences shared by participants.

A Journey of Transformation
One of the inspiring stories from the programme comes from Neliswa, who has been part of the initiative for four months. Neliswa, her daughter Olunje, and her grandmother have benefited from the food parcels provided.
Before joining the programme, Neliswa shared, “At times, we would all go to bed without eating.” This food insecurity had a serious effect on little Olunje, who was born underweight.
Neliswa notes a positive change in her daughter’s health since receiving the food parcels.
“The food has not only helped Olunje but has also been beneficial for my own well-being,” she says. “I need to take medication that I sometimes couldn’t take due to lack of meals.”
The programme has not only improved Olunje’s weight and overall health but has also provided Neliswa with the stability she needs to manage her own health conditions.

A Glimpse into Another Family’s Experience
Okuhle, another participant in the programme, also shared her positive experience.
Okuhle has noticed significant improvements in her child, Lukhanye’s development.
“I can see the difference in my child’s development,” she says.
“We are three in the house, me, the father, and the child. Thank you very much for the food parcel.”
Desiree Lottering, who joined the programme with her 11-month-old baby Faith, echoes similar sentiments.
“Ever since I got the groceries, I am happy. My child is growing well and I’m also doing well,” Desiree shares.
The support provided through the programme has contributed to Faith’s healthy growth and has improved Desiree’s own well-being.

A Vision of Hope
The stories of Neliswa, Okuhle, and Desire illustrate the transformative power of the Mother and Child Nutrition Programme. By addressing the immediate nutritional needs of families facing poverty, the programme is making a tangible difference in their lives.
The success of this project hinges on the collaborative efforts of our strategic partners, including the Do More Foundation, RCL, PepsiCo Foundation, Oceana, OneFarm Share, Quantum Foods, Danone, and Kellanova.
As we continue to support and expand this initiative, it is clear that every effort counts.
Your support and awareness can help ensure that more families receive the nutrition they need to thrive.