1 in 4 of South African's children under the age of five years old are stunted . Stunting robs young children from reaching their full potential. Stunted children in average perform worse at at school than their non-stunted counterparts, are more likely to be unemployed as adults, are a high risk of getting diseases like diabetes and hypertension and are vulnerable to being trapped in inter-generational cycle of poverty. This is unjust as stunting is completely preventable.
The first 1000 days of life are key time for development and growth, mothers and babies need good nutritious food, high quality healthcare, clean and healthy environments to flourish and grow great. Pregnant women in poverty stricken communities do not have the same access to information, this unfortunately allows for them to fall through the cracks resulting in them not being able to recognise when they need help especially with mentally health related issues and stigma attached to it.
Using data to mobilise policy makers, stories to inspire the public ,communities of practice to support community health workers and mommy and baby classes to support parents. Seeking to strengthen South Africa towards a future in which every child has access to opportunities to attain their full potential. Through Antenatal and Post natal support ,self help projects and Nutri Prego packs as food subsidy.
The Nutri family program which includes the Ante natal and Post natal classes will drive mom -empowered behaviour change that results in improved maternal health(including maternal mental health), reduced drug and alcohol consumption ,improved inclusive breastfeeding , healthy complementary feeding practices ,early Ante natal care booking ,early uptake off child support grant and greater understanding and community around the long term benefits of healthy pregnancy and child care practices.
