The Social Context of Concurrent Malnutrition among Children under Five in South Africa

Matshidiso Sello, Wits university
Sunday Adedini, Federal University Oye-Ekiti & University of Witwatersrand
Clifford O. Odimegwu, University of the Witwatersrand

In South Africa, high rates of malnutrition persist among under-five children despite undergoing a nutritional transition. Understanding the social context of concurrent childhood malnutrition (CCM) is crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3.2. This study investigates CCM's social determinants, employing a mixed methods approach analysing the 2017 National Income Dynamics Survey data and conducting in-depth interviews with mothers. Results show that CCM prevalence among under-5 children was 34.66%. Factors linked to childhood malnutrition include age, sex, birth weight, ethnicity, access to medical aid, and childcare arrangements. Qualitative findings reveal economic strain, food insecurity, difficult food choices, nutritional compromises, socio-cultural influences, unclear childcare practices, and knowledge gaps. These complexities highlight the necessity for comprehensive strategies addressing multiple factors to enhance children's nutritional outcomes and advance SDG 3.2's goal of preventing under-five deaths by 2030. The study underscores the urgency of holistic interventions to combat childhood malnutrition in South Africa.