Emirates, EPCR, and Kolisi Foundation Launch Emirates Nourishment Programme to Provide 1.6 Million Nutritious Breakfasts for South African Children
In a significant initiative aimed at combating food insecurity among children in South Africa, Emirates, the European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR), and the Kolisi Foundation have unveiled the Emirates Nourishment Programme. This long-term project is set to provide approximately 1.6 million nutritious breakfasts over four years, ensuring that around 2,000 children each year in Gauteng, Cape Town, and Durban start their school days with a healthy meal.
Addressing Food Insecurity in South Africa
Food insecurity is a pressing issue in South Africa, affecting an estimated 15 to 16 million people, with children disproportionately impacted. Breakfast is often the first meal sacrificed in households facing economic challenges. The Emirates Nourishment Programme aims to address this critical gap by delivering around 400,000 nutritious breakfasts annually to underprivileged communities. This initiative not only focuses on nutrition but also seeks to enhance children’s ability to concentrate and engage in their education.
The Role of Sport in Community Development
The Emirates Nourishment Programme runs until 2030 and integrates nutritional support with the inspirational elements of rugby. By leveraging the sport’s community-building power, the initiative provides children with consistent access to breakfast while also connecting them with role models who exemplify resilience, teamwork, and leadership. This dual approach aims to create a supportive environment conducive to learning and personal growth.
Kolisi Foundation’s Commitment to Lasting Change
The Kolisi Foundation emphasizes the need for comprehensive solutions to address inequality in various forms. Through its focus on food security, education, gender-based violence prevention, and sports, the Foundation collaborates with communities and strategic partners to dismantle barriers that hinder young people’s potential. The Foundation’s founder, Siya Kolisi, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating that no child should have to choose between learning and hunger. He noted that a nutritious breakfast can significantly impact a child’s ability to learn and grow.
Expert Insights on Nutrition and Education
Mahlatse Mashua, Managing Director of the Kolisi Foundation, remarked on the profound impact of good nutrition on a child’s future. She stated that consistent breakfast provision not only satisfies hunger but also enhances attendance, cognitive development, and classroom participation. These seemingly ordinary mornings can lead to extraordinary opportunities over time.
Jacques Raynaud, CEO of EPCR, emphasized rugby’s unique ability to unite communities and inspire meaningful change. He expressed pride in the Emirates Nourishment Programme as a collaborative effort that will support thousands of children across South Africa, providing them with the nutrition necessary for their development.
Emirates’ Commitment to Community Engagement
Afzal Parambil, Emirates’ Regional Manager for South Africa, reiterated the airline’s commitment to community engagement through its sponsorship initiatives. He stated that the partnership with EPCR and the Kolisi Foundation aims to remove barriers to learning and opportunity, ultimately helping young people reach their full potential.
By combining nutritional support with the unifying power of rugby, the Emirates Nourishment Programme represents a strategic investment in the future of South Africa’s children. This initiative is poised to ensure that thousands of young learners begin each school day nourished and ready to engage in their education.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-06-26 15:04:00 • By the Editorial Desk
