Exploring childhood malnutrition and household food security in Gauteng and Limpopo: Implications for social development processes

Abstract

This paper provides insight into the relationship between child malnutrition and food security in two South African communities facing economic hardships. The research focused on Thulani, a township in Gauteng province, and Ga Masemola, a rural village in Limpopo province. We conducted 20 in-depth interviews with mothers of children under five years. A key theme distilled from the data was the negative effects of unemployment, limited access to nutritious foods and coping strategies to alleviate food insecurity. The paper emphasises that suspending health and nutrition programmes during the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated health inequalities and reversed progress in achieving SDGs 1-3. The paper emphasises the importance of social development processes in addressing childhood malnutrition's root causes. This includes providing services, working collaboratively with communities and development agencies to promote sustainable food systems and nutrition awareness, and connecting families with needed psychosocial support and financial assistance.