The lack of co-ordination between these standalone programmes results in missed opportunities for synergies, leaving vulnerable children and their families without adequate follow-up support.
This concern was highlighted in a 2024 report by the United Nations Children's Fund, which found that 23% of SA children experience severe food poverty, consuming fewer than two of the five recommended food groups per day.
Factors such as unemployment, food insecurity, inadequate access to basic services, and limited knowledge about nutrition all contribute to the crisis.
Dr Matshidiso Sello, a Researcher at the University of Johannesburg, spoke to Channel Africa about the study, explaining the dire consequences of food poverty on children’s health and development. “Children consistently not receiving enough nutrition face serious health issues such as malnutrition and stunting,” she said.
The study examined the effectiveness of social interventions such as the Child Support Grant and the National School Nutrition Programme. While the grant has played a vital role in reducing child hunger, its value remains below the food poverty line, making it insufficient to meet children’s basic nutritional needs. Additionally, many eligible children do not receive the grant due to administrative challenges.
Similarly, the National School Nutrition Programme is recognised as a crucial intervention, providing meals to millions of children in low-income communities. However, Sello pointed out significant challenges, including procurement issues, funding delays, and logistical problems, all of which impact the programme’s effectiveness and the nutritional quality of meals provided to children.
To combat these issues, the study recommends targeted interventions to strengthen social protection systems.
“Cash support alone won’t solve the problem,” Sello stressed.
“We need to improve the quality and sustainability of school feeding programmes, enhance caregiver education on nutrition, and ensure long-term government commitment.”
Researchers are engaging with government departments to push for an integrated approach. Discussions are ongoing to improve co-ordination between agencies and deliver comprehensive support to SA’s most vulnerable children.
--ChannelAfrica--
