2,654 children are suffering from acute malnutrition in one South African province

The Eastern Cape provincial government revealed that 2,654 children were suffering from acute malnutrition in the province.

It has reached such concerning levels that the Democratic Alliance is demanding a provincial child nutrition plan to address malnutrition.

Marlene Ewers, a member of the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature, said the problems stem from broken promises by Premier Oscar Mabuyane.

She alleged that Mabuyane and his provincial government’s fragmented response to child malnutrition caused a humanitarian crisis.

“When Mabuyane appeared before the SA Human Rights Commission’s inquiry in 2022, he acknowledged the failures that remain evident today,” she said.

“He recognised the need for consistent data on malnutrition, better integration between departments, improved early-warning systems, and coordinated action.”

She added that he appeared before the commission in September 2025 and admitted that his government had been very sluggish.

He did not want to declare the crisis a disaster but promised a command-centre approach and improved surveillance, coordination, and case management.

“Since then, nothing has changed. 2,654 children are suffering from acute malnutrition, including 754 severe cases,” she said.

Alfred Nzo had the highest combined number, with 572 affected children. OR Tambo recorded the highest number of severe cases, at 147.

Nelson Mandela Bay, one of South Africa’s eight metropolitan municipalities, recorded 508 cases, including 103 severe cases.

“These figures expose a crisis affecting rural communities, towns, and the province’s major urban centres,” Ewers said.

“Despite the Premier’s promises of a coordinated effort, Social Development states that malnutrition is detected and managed by the Department of Health.”

“The MEC then lists household support interventions, but does not align those responses to the need identified by the Department of Health.”

The Democratic Alliance is now seeking a joint committee briefing and will demand a verified, funded provincial child nutrition plan.

It also wants clear responsibility across departments and quarterly public reporting on how many children are being reached, treated, and recovering.

“This cannot become another government plan that exists on paper while children continue to go hungry,” she said.

“Every one of these 2,654 children has a name, a family, and a future that is being placed at risk.”