Parents and caregivers in Hammanskraal have been urged to take early action against child malnutrition, with health officials highlighting the importance of proper nutrition during the first 1 000 days of a child’s life.

The call was made during a nutrition awareness campaign held by the Tshwane District Health Services Nutrition Team at the Chris Hani Sports Ground in Hammanskraal.

The campaign brought together parents and caregivers from Temba and surrounding communities, providing health education on nutrition and the prevention of malnutrition.

Health officials emphasised that early nutrition plays a critical role in ensuring children grow and develop properly.

The first 1 000 days, which cover the period from pregnancy through the first two years of a child’s life, were highlighted as particularly important.

Dietitian Matsobane Ntsoane explained that this period is vital because a child’s brain, immune system, and body develop rapidly during this stage.

“Children who do not receive the nutrients they need are at greater risk of poor growth, developmental delays, and frequent illnesses.

“We encourage parents and caregivers to prioritise balanced nutrition, attend routine growth monitoring sessions and seek healthcare support early to prevent malnutrition before complications arise,” said Ntsoane.

The campaign reinforced the national malnutrition prevention message, ‘1 000 Days, One Change’, which encourages expectant mothers to maintain healthy eating habits throughout pregnancy and mothers to exclusively breastfeed their babies during the first six months of life, followed by the introduction of nutritious complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding.

Health educators also reminded families that good nutrition depends on making informed food choices.

Parents were encouraged to practise proper hand hygiene, drink safe water and maintain balanced diets to protect themselves and their children from illness.

Community members were further educated about warning signs that may indicate malnutrition. These include low body weight, loss of muscle and body fat, visible bones, fatigue, weakness, dry skin, brittle hair, and frequent infections.

Ntsoane said malnutrition can also affect a child’s immune system, potentially resulting in stunted growth and delayed cognitive development.

Residents were encouraged to seek medical attention promptly if they notice these warning signs rather than waiting for the condition to worsen.

Residents welcomed the initiative and praised the Department of Health for bringing health education directly to the community.

Flora Makalla, a resident of Temba, said the campaign provided valuable information that could help parents make informed decisions about their children’s overall health.

The awareness campaign forms part of Tshwane District Health Services’ broader commitment to preventing malnutrition through community education, early intervention and improved access to healthcare services.

Health officials said continued awareness and early intervention remain essential in ensuring children receive the nutrition and healthcare support needed to achieve healthy growth and development.

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