Far too many babies are born into the world too soon or too small. The University of Pretoria’s Professor Ute Feucht’s research underscores the urgent need for improved maternal and child health interventions to ensure a healthier future for all.

Pretoria, South Africa (11 October 2024) – The first 1,000 days of a child’s life are crucial to its health, growth and development. A lot of what happens from the moment of conception to the child’s second birthday determines just how well he or she will thrive in the future. This is according to Professor Ute Feucht, a leading expert in maternal and child health based at the University of Pretoria (UP).

She shared a wealth of knowledge about how placental function, maternal health and early childhood factors influence lifelong health outcomes.

The impact of placental insufficiency

In her inaugural address, Feucht, who is the Director of UP’s Centre for Maternal, Fetal, Newborn and Child Health Care Strategies, shared how foetal growth restriction, caused by complications with placental function, can lead to serious consequences such as stillbirths, neonatal deaths, and long-term health issues like diabetes and hypertension.

Prof Feucht added that data from the South African mortality auditing programmes in the public sector health facilities shows that most stillbirths occur mainly in apparently low-risk pregnancies and are coded as “unexplained stillbirths”.

In addition, most stillbirths are antenatal, not intrapartum, and thus not linked to the quality of care the mother receives during delivery.

The influence of maternal HIV

Feucht also drew data from the Siyakhula study, which examined HIV-exposed uninfected infants in South Africa.

The study found that even when children remain uninfected with HIV, maternal HIV infection can negatively impact their growth and development due to changes inside the uterus.

“The Umbiflow studies, which used Doppler ultrasound technology to assess placental blood flow, showed the potential for this technology to prevent stillbirths and identify at-risk pregnancies,” Prof Feucht said.

“The studies, conducted across South Africa and other low- and middle-income countries, revealed alarming rates of placental insufficiency in seemingly healthy women. The prevalence of abnormal Dopplers – indicating insufficient blood flow to the foetus – was found to be 10 times higher in these low- and middle-income countries compared to high-income settings.”

The first 1,000 days

Prof. Feucht stated that 80% of a baby’s brain growth takes place within the first 1,000 days, which is the period from conception to the child’s second birthday.

“This is a time of tremendous potential and enormous vulnerability, where the foundation for future health, growth and neurodevelopment is laid,” she said.

“Poor foetal growth and development during these early stages, particularly due to conditions like foetal growth restriction, can lead to life-long disadvantages.”

Prof Feucht went on to draw attention to the developmental origins of the health and disease hypothesis, which suggests that a foetus makes genetic adaptations in response to its environment.

These adaptations, while initially protective, may predispose an individual to chronic diseases in adulthood if the predicted environment doesn’t match reality.

When it comes to postnatal care, particularly for vulnerable infants born to mothers living with HIV, or those experiencing placental insufficiency, Professor Feucht shared findings from the UmbiBaby and UmbiGodisa studies.

These studies found that children exposed to both HIV and placental insufficiency were at significantly higher risk for stunted growth and cognitive delays.

Going forward

To identify and address these risks, Prof Feucht called for better integration of care for mothers and infants in South Africa’s healthcare system.

“Streamlined, holistic care for both mother and child at primary healthcare centres would reduce the number of visits needed for family planning, HIV-related care and routine infant check-ups and immunizations, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for both,” she said.

Professor Feucht closed her lecture by quoting a recent Lancet report, which stated:

“The fact that every fourth baby in the world is born too soon or born too small is a concern for human rights, public health, the national economy and development.” Addressing this issue, she added, is vital for ensuring a healthier future for all.

Sources: University of Pretoria

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Paedspal, a non-profit organisation, is a lifeline for children facing serious illnesses. Their dedicated team provides paediatric palliative care, offering comfort and support to both the children and their families.

Cape Town, South Africa (11 October 2024) – Children deserve to be carefree, play at their heart’s content, grow, develop and receive love and care in all its abundance.

It’s heartbreaking when these precious little beings are unable to enjoy these simple pleasures due to unforeseen and undeserved illnesses.

Seeking to provide much-needed care and relief to these innocent children unfairly robbed of their health and joy, is Paedspal, a non-profit organisation focusing on palliative care for children.

Paedspal is committed to helping children with serious health-related suffering find relief, supporting their families and empowering healthcare practitioners to provide holistic palliative care.

Paedspal was established in 2016 in response to the desperate need for palliative care services for children with non-curable illnesses.

With a focus on holistic care that addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, Paedspal has become a beacon of hope for thousands of families.

Understanding Paediatric Palliative Care

Paediatric palliative care is a specialised form of medical support for children coping with serious illnesses. It aims to alleviate symptoms and reduce the stress associated with the illness, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for both the child and their family.

Paedspal has rapidly grown to respond to the urgent needs of thousands of children who require this care but aren’t able to access it due to its specialist nature.

According to their website, Paedspal provides over 4,000 palliative care consultations to children and their families every year on average.

With a staff of 16, Paedspal is the largest specialist palliative care organisation in the country dedicated to children.

“Cancer accounts for around 4% of children needing palliative care, with premature birth and birth trauma and congenital malformations providing the highest need globally (33.9%) alongside HIV disease (29.6%),” Paedspal shared in a post.

What Paedspal does

Paedspal operates in the Western Cape and sees children both in public and private hospitals, as well as in its own outpatient clinic.

The outpatient clinic operates four times a week from its offices situated at the Stonefountain Terrace building.

Two of these clinics are full multidisciplinary clinics (both medical and psychosocial teams), and the other two provide additional psychosocial support.

Outreach is also provided to select institutions and communities.

Paedspal also provides education and training in PPC and is involved in policy work provincially and nationally.

Hats On for Children’s Palliative Care

The organisation relies solely on funding from its committed donors and supporters. As part of its fundraising efforts, Paedspal has partnered with six schools to participate in the fun Hats On for Children’s Palliative Care (#HatsOn4CPC) global campaign on Friday, 11 October.

“We’re looking forward to our annual #HatsOn4CPC day! It’s a time of fun and laughs as you wear hats of all kinds!

“You can have a ‘best hat’ competition! Send us your photos and tag us. We want to see those hats! You are taking part in an international event!”

To be part of the fundraising festivities or to learn more about Paedspal, email admin@paedspal.org.za or call 021 200 5873.

Sources: Paedspal

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Primary pupils from KZN schools in the Newcastle area gathered for some competitive literacy fun at a Reading for Meaning competition aimed at addressing the concerning statistics of many African learners struggling with comprehension.

Newcastle, South African (10 October 2024) – The Newcastle Town Hall was a frenzy of competitive fun and learning as local school children participated in the Reading for Meaning competition on Tuesday, 8 October.

While reading is a valuable skill, understanding the underlying message of a text is equally important, if not more so. Unfortunately, many primary school children face challenges in comprehending what they read.

The event aimed to foster a love of reading and comprehension, especially among learners who struggle with reading skills.

The educational event was supported by the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture with local libraries, including Newcastle Municipality Library and Dannhauser Library.

The competition featured participation from several schools, including Khethokuhle Primary School, Vumelani Primary School, Dannhauser Primary School, and Dannhauser Secondary School.

According to the Newcastle Municipality, pupils competed in both IsiZulu and English categories, demonstrating their reading, comprehension, and spelling abilities by reading aloud, summarising stories and spelling three words each.

The winners in the IsiZulu category were Khethokuhle Primary School, Dannhauser Combined School and Vumelani Primary School.

The English category winners were Dannhauser Combined School, Dannhauser Primary School and Dannhauser Combined School

The top winners from this competition will have the opportunity to advance to the provincial level, showcasing their reading and comprehension skills on a larger stage and we’re so excited to see how they will perform next.

Sources: Newcastle Municipality 

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Through their harmonious voices, the Tuks Camerata choir celebrates South Africa’s rich cultural heritage and the resilience of its people in its latest album, which has earned them a South African Music Award nomination.

Pretoria, South Africa (10 October 2024) – By celebrating the country’s democracy and cultural diversity through music, the University of Pretoria (UP) choir, Tuks Camerata, earned national recognition for their exceptional musical talents.

Their latest album, uJehova, has been nominated for a South African Music Award in the Best Traditional Faith Music Album category.

According to the university, the album was released on all major streaming platforms and is a tribute to 30 years of democracy in South Africa and the country’s cultural heritage.

The album boasts 13 captivating songs, which are a heartfelt tribute to South Africa’s rich cultural heritage and a celebration of its democracy.

Tuks Camerata conductor Dr Michael Barrett-Berg, on behalf of the choir, expressed that they were humbled to be nominated among South Africa’s best artists and musicians.

“This is a special nod for us, as the Camerata strives to make the choir a home for all students.

“We specialise in both Western and traditional choral music, so to receive a nomination for Best Traditional Faith Music Album is in line with our goals to promote inclusivity and diversity, both for the choir and UP as a whole,” said Dr Barrett-Berg.

The album features thoughtfully curated pieces that demonstrate a dedication to preserving and advancing the musical heritage of the country, providing listeners with an opportunity to commemorate a significant milestone in South African history.

The choir is made up of 78 full-time students from across disciplines, and their success lies in their ability to harmonise diverse voices while embracing innovation in traditional choral music.

Noting that it is not common for a choir to be nominated at this esteemed level, Dr Barrett-Berg said the choir was honoured to be listed among the country’s best.

“We are looking forward to the announcement of the winners on 2 November 2024, and although winning a SAMA would be wonderful, being nominated is just as amazing,” an honoured Dr Barrett-Berg said.

Sources: University of Pretoria

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The Green Youth Environmental Solution organisation members are inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards through their hands-on initiatives like gardening.

Pietermaritzburg, South Africa (10 October 2024) – Planting and bringing life to the soil lies at the very heart and purpose of the Green Youth Environmental Solution non-profit organisation.

Earlier this month, a team rolled up their sleeves to prepare to plant a garden at Fezokuhle Primary School in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.

Nourishing vegetables such as spinach and onions will be planted in the school’s garden with the assistance of the children who attend the organisation’s theory lessons. This hands-on experience will help them understand the process and prepare for the future.

By exploring the wonders of the natural world, children develop a deep connection, appreciation and respect for the environment, fostering a lifelong commitment to its preservation.

The vegetable garden planting initiative is just one of the various ways that the Green Youth Environmental Solution is committed to teaching children in primary schools about the importance of taking care of the environment and the value of gardening.

Sources: Green Youth Environmental Solution

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Through its recent community event, the KZN Cycling Development Trust brought joy and the opportunity to thrive in the sport of cycling to the young people of Mpumalanga township and eThekwini.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (09 October 2024) – Sport is not only fun and a great way to stay active, but it can also play a crucial role in helping youth in underserved communities. It can be instrumental in helping them foster healthy relationships, develop their skills, as well as open doors to a wealth of opportunities that they might otherwise miss out on.

Operating from this perspective is the KZN Cycling Development Trust, which invited 200 young riders from Mpumalanga township as well as riders from the eThekwini Mini Hubs programme to participate in a community event at Zaminhlanhla Primary School recently.

Supported by their families and community leaders, the youth enjoyed the thrill of cycling together and healthy competition. The top-performing riders were included in an HP training camp the following day.

Through such initiatives, the KZN Cycling Development Trust not only introduces young riders to the sport but also identifies talented riders who are then trained to graduate to a Higher Performance Squad.

This squad receives additional and more focused coaching, which prepares them to compete in a variety of high-level events – ultimately paving the way for a brighter future for our youth!

“As these riders improve, they will start to be exposed to more regular mainstream competition, and who knows, the next world beater may have started their journey this weekend,” the trust said in a post.

Sources: KZN Cycling Development Trust

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If you’ve ever wondered how deep a mother’s love and resilience runs, Sibongile’s story is a great place to start. Faced with raising a child with osteogenesis imperfecta, she not only overcame challenges in finding adequate support, but she also drew inner strength from her hardships.

Cape Town, South Africa (09 October 2024) – The prospect of becoming a mother and the thrill of welcoming a new life into the world is an indescribable experience.

However, when that little life arrives with unexpected challenges, it can be a deeply daunting adjustment. Something that Sibongile knows all too well.

The resilient mother to a precious little girl named Leona chose to turn the anxiety of raising a child with osteogenesis imperfecta into strength and courage.

Osteogenesis imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease, is a genetic or heritable disease in which bones fracture (break) easily, often with no obvious cause or minimal injury.

According to The Chaeli Campaign, Sibongile experienced challenges in caring for Leona, including a long search for support. However, she grew stronger and found hope.

“My perspective of life changed. I became a strong, bold, and courageous woman,” she reflects.

Thanks to The Chaeli Campaign, Leona received a wheelchair, giving her the freedom to attend check-ups and participate in family activities.

Sibongile continues to pay this forward by facilitating workshops and encouraging people with disabilities to live full, active lives.

“My advice to other parents is to advocate for your child and surround yourself with supportive communities.”

Her inspiring story and those of many other parents of children with disabilities have been shared in the Chaeli Campaign’s book, Champions of Inclusion.

The book, created for the organisation’s 20th birthday, hopes to inspire individuals to embrace inclusivity and celebrate the unique qualities of every person.

For more information visit https://www.chaelicampaign.org/product/champions-of-inclusion-commemorative-collection/ 

Sources: The Chaeli Campaign

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Zezichume’s face was a picture of pure joy as his superhero idol stepped into the room, marking the beginning of the most unforgettable day of his young warrior!

Johannesburg, South Africa (09 October 2024) – One vibrant and energetic little boy named Zezichume got to meet his favourite hero character Spiderman!

Pulling all the stops to make the bubbly four-year-old’s dream come true was none other than the dedicated Reach for a Dream team.

“For his Dream Day, we surprised Zezichume with a visit from his beloved superhero, Spiderman. The moment Spidey walked into the room, Zezichume’s face lit up with excitement.

“He immediately reached out to touch his hero, barely able to contain his joy. The two spent time together, hugging, playing games, and, of course, Zezichume was quick to mimic Spiderman’s iconic web-shooting moves,” the organisation shared.

The little boy had a day filled with fun and adventure and just when he thought it couldn’t get any better – it did!

The tech-savvy toddler was surprised with the gadgets of his dreams, a new tablet and headphones.

Overjoyed, Zezichume beamed with excitement as he hugged his new tablet, clearly thrilled that his Dream Day had become a reality.

It’s in these heartwarming moments that you truly believe in the magic of life, where simple acts can have a profound impact. Happy Dream Day, Zezichume!

Sources: Reach for a Dream

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A simple act of collecting reusable shopper bags to fill with nutritious food and treats not only provided sustenance but also brought joy and a sense of belonging to the learners of the Thandulwazi Maths and Science Academy Saturday School.

Johannesburg, South Africa (08 October 2024) – An initiative born out of a desire to help students struggling to get nourishing food has become a cornerstone of St Stithians Girls’ College‘s community outreach efforts.

The college’s most recent and heartwarming initiative saw it appealing to parents to kindly donate spare Woolies black shopper bags to be used for a really great cause.

The college managed to collect 300 bags, which were repurposed to make goodie bags for the children who attend the Thandulwazi Maths and Science Academy Saturday School at the college campus.

According to St Stithians Girls’ College, the children who attend the academy mostly come from disadvantaged backgrounds, which compelled parents to establish a feeding scheme that usually feeds about 1,000 children on Saturdays so that they are not hungry in the classrooms.

“It made no sense that this was happening right under our noses on our own campus and so the GC PTA began a feeding initiative where each grade from Grade 8-12 was responsible for a Saturday.

“It has been the most humbling experience ever! And has since rolled out in the other schools on campus including the Boys Prep and Girls Prep),” shares Samantha Nupen, St Stithians Girls College PTA Thandulwazi Rep.

More recently, only 300 learners were planned to attend the Saturday classes, which fell during the school holidays in September.

As part of the Heritage Day celebrations, the college wanted to do a little something extra special for the learners by creating goodie bags.

“We didn’t want the kids to have to leave the festivities to get lunch, so we filled the collected Woolies bags with a sandwich, juice, chips, fruit, sweets etc.,” says Nupen.

The Thandulwazi Maths and Science Academy was created in 2005, a pioneering initiative of St Stithians College to provide educational growth opportunities for students and teachers based in public schools in greater Johannesburg.

Head of Thandulwazi, Mr Velaphi Gumbi, said the event was a resounding success, commending the meticulous planning by the Head, PTA and the Girls’ College community.

“The dignified packaging and distribution of refreshments to our students were particularly noteworthy and truly embodied the spirit of belonging and inclusivity that the Heritage Day Celebration aimed to promote.

“We express our sincerest gratitude to the PTA and girls for being at Corlette Gate for the distribution. Your efforts have not only provided our students with a memorable experience but have also reinforced the values of Ubuntu and cultural appreciation. It was special for all of us,” a grateful Gumbi said. 

To support the incredible efforts of St Stithians Girls’ College’s feeding scheme, contact Samantha Nupen at sam@nupen.co.za or call 011 577 6300.

Sources: St Stithians College

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A small KZN town, Howick, is home to a community with a big heart! The town is being transformed by the unwavering spirit of a community group called Love Howick, which is committed to uplifting its people and the place they call home.

Howick, South Africa (08 October 2024) – Donned in red and bursting with positive vibes, the KZN-based Love Howick community group celebrated eight years of sheer dedication to working together to uplift their community.

For eight years, these dedicated individuals have been working tirelessly to address the pressing social issues facing their community, from poverty and unemployment to environmental degradation.

To mark the special occasion, the group launched Red Socks Friday and held a Love Howick Red Run over the weekend, which was greatly supported by members and supporters of their mission.

The fun run at Piggly Wiggly Midlands was a vibrant event that brought together residents, businesses, and supporters to celebrate their shared commitment to the town.

In keeping with the birthday festivities, Love Howick’s month-long Red Socks Friday initiative invites the public to pick a Friday this month and get your friends, family, colleagues or whoever to wear red socks for just R10 per person. All donations will directly support the 2024 Lidgeton Sizakancane Senior Citizen Centre Project.

It is just one of the team’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness and funds in combating poverty, unemployment, and environmental degradation, all while celebrating Love Howick’s 8th Birthday Month!

A love rooted in community

Love Howick’s commitment to its community is evident in its various initiatives, including the EduProject and Dream Centre, which aim to promote skills development and education.

The group has also been instrumental in beautifying the Howick area through clean-ups, recycling initiatives, and mural paintings.

Their dedication, passion, and collective action have made a significant difference in the lives of many.

“Love Howick wouldn’t be here without the incredible people, businesses, and volunteers who have stood by our side through the years.

“Together, we have made an incredible impact in our community, and we look forward to many more years of driving change and making Howick a better place for all,” the group said.

To get in touch with Love Howick, contact Zothile at zothile@lovehowick.org.za or call 033 940 5075.

Sources: Love Howick

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