How a Maternal Support Grant Could Transform South Africa’s Fight Against Child Stunting

More than a quarter of South Africa’s children suffer from stunting—a lifelong consequence of chronic malnutrition. The effects go beyond health, impacting education, workforce productivity, and economic growth. With one in five households struggling to put food on the table, the proposed Maternal Support Grant could be a game-changer. But why is it taking so long to implement?

The Hidden Crisis: Stunting’s Long-Term Impact

Stunting isn’t just about height—it’s a sign of poor brain development due to malnutrition. Children deprived of protein and essential nutrients face lifelong challenges, from lower school performance to reduced earning potential. Shockingly, a child born today may only reach 43% of their productive potential as an adult because of stunting.

Why Pregnancy Support Matters

Research shows that 20% of stunting cases begin in the womb. Poor maternal nutrition leads to low birth weight, increasing the risk of developmental delays and healthcare costs. A Maternal Support Grant could help mothers afford:

• Nutritious food (reducing “hidden hunger” from cheap, processed diets)
• Transport to clinics
• Basic essentials like nappies and electricity

The Economic Case for the Grant

The grant would cost R1.9–R3.26 billion annually—just 0.1% of government spending. Yet, it could save R13.8 billion in healthcare costs by preventing complications like low birth weight. Globally, every dollar spent on preventing anemia generates 12 times the return in economic benefits.

Delays in Policy Approval

Despite over a decade of discussions, the grant remains in draft policy stages. Meanwhile, 13% of South African babies are born underweight, facing higher risks of death and stunting. The Child Support Grant has already proven effective, reducing stunting by 31%—imagine the impact of extending support to pregnancy.

A Call to Action

South Africa can’t afford to wait. Investing in mothers today means a healthier, stronger economy tomorrow. Policymakers must act now to break the cycle of malnutrition.

What do you think? Should South Africa prioritize the Maternal Support Grant?

{Source Daily Maverick}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com