Khulisa Care Pilot Reaches 2 000 Mothers in Western Cape Nutrition Initiative

The Western Cape Government's Khulisa Care pilot programme has enrolled 2 027 mothers across Khayelitsha, Mitchells Plain and the Breede Valley as of 7 August 2026. The initiative provides monthly food vouchers for nutrient-rich foods alongside community-based healthcare support to prevent low birth weight and child stunting, conditions that can permanently affect a child's cognitive development, education and long-term health.

The programme supports mothers from pregnancy until the baby is six months old, the critical first 1 000 days of life. It targets underweight pregnant women, those at risk of delivering low-birth-weight babies, and mothers whose infants are born underweight.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said: "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."

Why it matters

Stunting remains one of South Africa's most persistent public health challenges. It is largely preventable through good nutrition during pregnancy and infancy, yet cost and access barriers prevent many women from accessing adequate support.

Who is eligible

Pregnant women identified as underweight or at nutritional risk, and mothers of babies born with low birth weight, at participating sites.

What you can do

If you are pregnant or have recently given birth and are concerned about nutrition or affordability of healthy food, speak to your clinic sister or healthcare provider about available support in your area.

Sources

Every claim on this page is traceable. These are the documents it rests on.

1. Western Cape Government 17 August 2026
2. Cape Town ETC 19 August 2026