Every child in South Africa has the constitutional right to adequate nutrition, yet many young children still face uncertainty when it comes to accessing enough healthy food.
Nutrition in the early years is essential for children’s growth, development and readiness to learn.
Over the past three years, Inceba Trust has equipped principals in Stellenbosch and Drakenstein with tools and training to monitor children’s growth, strengthening nutrition awareness and enabling more targeted support where it is most needed.
The first five years of life are a critical period of development, yet nutrition challenges are not always immediately visible. Without regular monitoring, children who may need additional support can easily be overlooked.
Recognising this, Inceba Trust began a pilot project in 2023, measuring the height and weight of 838 children aged five to 59 months. This expanded to 3 927 children in 2024 and 4 331 children in last year’s baseline assessment. A follow-up assessment later that year included 2 510 children, allowing progress to be tracked over time.
The nutrition monitoring currently includes more than 100 early childhood development centres (ECDs) locally as well as Worcester and Kimberley.
ECD principals were trained to conduct height and weight measurements accurately, and provided with scales, height charts and guidance. “Children who receive nutritious food every day can grow, learn and develop optimally. When we began measuring children’s growth, we saw that some children were not developing as expected,” said Nielen Bekker, CEO of Inceba Trust.
“Measuring allowed us to better understand where support was needed and to work alongside ECDs and partners to respond in practical ways.”
The baseline findings highlighted the importance of strengthening nutrition practices within the schools. In response, principals increased their focus on balanced menu planning, food preparation and monitoring children’s development.
This has contributed to greater awareness among staff and more intentional daily practices. Through collaboration with Outside the Bowl Africa, breakfast porridge was provided to selected centres where children were identified as being at greater nutritional risk.
“We are very grateful for the nutritional programme. We are receiving breakfast porridge that supports the children’s growth and development,” said Thandile Mbaqa, principal of ABC Crèche in Khayamandi.
“What I appreciate most is that we can monitor their progress and see their growth over time. It helps us understand how to better support the children.”
The follow-up assessment at the end of last year showed encouraging progress.The percentage of children showing signs of wasting declined from 4,9% to 3,6%, and underweight declined from 6,4% to 4,5%. Stunting also showed a slight improvement.
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At the same time, the findings highlighted areas that need continued attention, including an increase in the percentage of children showing signs of being overweight.
Beyond the data, one of the most significant outcomes has been the strengthening of capacity in centres. Principals are better equipped to monitor children’s growth, recognise potential concerns and respond appropriately. This knowledge enables centres to play an even stronger role in supporting children’s development.
The provincial Department of Health and Wellness contributed to this work by ensuring that measurements were accurately captured. “While nutrition challenges can’t be resolved overnight, consistent monitoring, strengthened practices and collaboration help build a stronger foundation,” Bekker added.
“These efforts contribute to environments where children are better supported to grow, develop and enter formal schooling ready to learn and thrive.”
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