The Western Cape Government’s innovative Khulisa Care pilot has made significant strides in its mission to tackle child stunting, enrolling 2 027 mothers across key locations in Khayelitsha, Mitchells Plain, and the Breede Valley as of 7 August 2026.
This initiative is not only a testament to the Government’s commitment to community health but also a proactive approach to safeguarding the future of children in the region.
Stunting, a critical issue that can lead to lifelong negative effects on cognitive development, educational outcomes, and overall health, remains a pressing but often overlooked crisis in South Africa.
The Khulisa Care programme provides crucial support to mothers from pregnancy until their babies reach six months old—the vital period where good nutrition can profoundly influence a child’s lifelong health.
‘Our provincial strategy follows a life-course approach because the foundations for a healthier Western Cape are laid long before a child enters school or reaches adulthood,’ stated Premier Alan Winde.
‘By supporting mothers during pregnancy and the first months of their babies’ lives, we are investing in healthier children, stronger families and a better future for our province,’
Cape {town} Etc Discount Alert!
Unlock Cape Town’s best experiences for half the price! From unforgettable adventures to hidden gems and mouthwatering restaurants, these limited-time deals won’t last long. Snag your discount before they’re gone!
Operated by the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness in collaboration with the Department of the Premier, the DG Murray Trust, the Grow Great Campaign, and Shoprite, Khulisa Care is designed to combat maternal malnutrition and low birth weight among vulnerable mothers
. It specifically targets underweight pregnant women and mothers whose infants are at risk of weighing less than 2.5 kilograms at birth.
Participants in the programme benefit from monthly vouchers redeemable at Shoprite for nutrient-dense foods, including eggs, beans, fortified maize meal, peanut butter, milk, amasi, pilchards, tuna, and soya products.
This dietary support is complemented by primary healthcare services such as growth monitoring, health education, mental health assistance, and continuous interaction with trained community health workers.
Early findings show remarkable results, with approximately 90% of mothers utilising their full monthly voucher of R550, typically spending around R420. Popular items include beans, long-life full-cream milk, tinned pilchards, and tinned tuna.
Western Cape Minister for Health and Wellness, Mireille Wenger, expressed encouragement regarding the pilot’s progress. ‘Reaching more than 2 000 mothers is an important milestone. We are testing whether this type of intervention can help address low birth weight, which is a significant risk factor for child stunting,’ she affirmed.
The programme plays a crucial role in providing immediate support during a time when eligible families often cannot access the Child Support Grant. ‘Closing this gap matters,’ Minister Wenger emphasised.
‘Supporting a mother with dignity during pregnancy and the first months of her baby’s life can help give that child a stronger start. Prevention is better than cure, and by acting early, we can give every child a better opportunity to grow, develop, and thrive,’
With an ongoing commitment to adapt based on feedback, the pilot continues to evolve, addressing challenges and enhancing the experience for participating mothers. Enrolment for the programme is anticipated to close in September 2026, after which the Department will evaluate the pilot’s impact and explore opportunities for expansion based on collected evidence.
Wenger concluded, ‘If it shows that this is an effective and sustainable way to address maternal malnutrition, low birth weight and the risk of stunting, we will be in a stronger position to consider how the model could reach more mothers and babies,’
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join!
Also read:
Western Cape achieves international accreditation in forensic toxicology
Picture: Mireille Wenger / Facebook
