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Priority interventions for reducing stunting in the complementary feeding age group in South Africa

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  • Ronelle Burger
  • Lisanne du Plessis
  • Trust Gangaidzo
  • Mastoera Sadan
  • Wiedaad Slemming
  • Gabrielle Wills

Abstract

In South Africa, approximately one in four children under the age of five is stunted (NDoH, Stats SA, SAMRC & ICF, 2019) – a rate that has remained persistently high. The enduring social and economic impact of stunting, coupled with rising food prices, underscores the need for interventions that are both effective and affordable. This review synthesises global evidence on strategies for children aged 6–24 months and evaluates their suitability within South Africa’s social, fiscal, and institutional realities. Two approaches emerge as most promising short-term strategies: (i) nutrition education that equips caregivers and communities to adopt age-appropriate complementary feeding, and (ii) small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (SQ-LNS) – 100-kcal, minimally processed nutrient-dense pastes rich in healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. Evidence indicates that these approaches can prevent undernutrition and foster linear growth when delivered at scale. These measures could yield rapid, affordable gains, but they must operate alongside longer-term structural reforms.

Suggested Citation

  • Ronelle Burger & Lisanne du Plessis & Trust Gangaidzo & Mastoera Sadan & Wiedaad Slemming & Gabrielle Wills, 2025. "Priority interventions for reducing stunting in the complementary feeding age group in South Africa," Development Southern Africa, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 42(6), pages 885-903, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:deveza:v:42:y:2025:i:6:p:885-903
    DOI: 10.1080/0376835X.2025.2596786
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