In 2024, analysis of routine data revealed that some of South Africa’s gains in child development and wellbeing are stalling, and may be starting to reverse. Young children are now more likely to live in poverty, suffer from food insecurity and malnutrition, and die before their fifth birthday than they were before the Covid-19 pandemic. In addition, the Thrive by Five Index found that fewer than half of 4-5-year-olds are developmentally on track. This learning brief examines existing data on child development and wellbeing, what it signifies, and why we need accelerated action for children to turn the tide. It draws from two consolidated pieces of research released in 2024 by key partners, namely the South African Early Childhood Review and the Child Gauge.
To read this learning brief, download a PDF, or read it magazine-style on ISSUU here.
