Muir Foundation: Uplifting ECD Through Nutrition & Training in Phongola

The Muir Foundation, in partnership with the DO MORE FOUNDATION, is helping to improve two key pillars in a child’s early years – nutrition and early learning in Phongola, a town in the heart of rural Zululand.

By investing in our national Nutrition and Early Learning programmes, The Muir Foundation empowers us to distribute more meals of DoMore Porridge to more Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres as well as train ECD principals and practitioners to improve their teaching knowledge and skills.

Providing high-quality nutrition in the early years

These centres play a crucial role in ensuring children receive at least one nutritious meal a day, often the only meal they have access to. DoMore Porridge is a fortified, sorghum-based product formulated by a Public Health and Nutrition Consultant to meet the dietary needs of children from birth to five years. Over the last year, the Muir Foundation has funded 264,560 meals of DoMore Porridge, resulting in 1,427 young children enjoying a bowl of porridge every school day over the last year.

Childhood malnutrition is a critical issue in South Africa, where 23% of children face severe food poverty, according to UNICEF. Without sufficient nutrition in the first 1,000 days of life - from pregnancy to age two - children are at risk of stunted growth, impaired cognitive development, and long-term health issues.

This period is crucial for brain development, with 90% of growth occurring before the age of five. Malnutrition during this time can lead to lifelong challenges, including reduced educational outcomes and diminished economic potential.

Investing in ECD training for lifelong learning

Part of creating better tomorrows for young children is building the knowledge and skills in the ECD workforce. By investing in the training of 13 practitioners and principles working in Phongola’s under-resourced ECD centres, the Muir Foundation is investing in the young children’s early learning and development in young children.

The NQF Level 4 training course is delivered by the LGSETA-accredited Elective Training Institute in coordination with DO MORE’s implementing partner, Lulamaphiko, which is based in Phongola. At the end of 12 months, students will be fully equipped to create an inclusive, play-based learning environment and age-appropriate activities to support holistic development of young children in preparation for Grade R.

By offering structured nutrition, health monitoring, and education, these centres not only provide vital meals but also act as hubs for holistic child development. The porridge and nutrition training ensure that young children get the nutrients they need to grow, play, and thrive, setting them up for better futures.

By focusing on early intervention, the work being done through the DO MORE FOUNDATION’s partnership with The Muir Foundation is focused on giving young children a grounding for a healthier, more prosperous life.

Contact our Partnerships Team to work with us to create better tomorrows for South Africa’s young children, their families, and communities: iris.naidoo@domore.org.za