Field testing of the revised paediatric food-based dietary guidelines among siswati speaking mothers/caregivers of children aged 0–36 months in Kabokweni, Mpumalanga, South Africa

[摘要] ENGLISH SUMMARY : Introduction: The significant occurrence of malnutrition among South African children necessitated the formulation of the Paediatric Food-Based Dietary Guidelines. These guidelines are short, nutrition messages aimed at improving the nutritional status of children. The formulation of the Paediatric Food-Based Dietary Guidelines has been revised, but they still require testing in different communities in order to determine the applicability and feasibility thereof.Aim: To determine the comprehension and feasibility of the revised Paediatric Food-Based Dietary Guidelines among SiSwati-speaking mothers/caregivers of children aged 0–36 months living in Kabokweni, Mpumalanga, South Africa.Methods: A qualitative research approach was used to achieve the aim. The study was set in Kabokweni, and the mothers/caregivers living in this community were selected as the study population. Purposive and snowball sampling were used to recruit a total of 75 participants, who formed 12 groups. Data was collected by means of focus group discussions.Results: The results indicated that this community was generally aware of the nutrition messages presented in the Paediatric Food-Based Dietary Guidelines and that they had a fair comprehension thereof. Comprehension of the guidelines was linked to the feasibility thereof and to the socio-economic status of the participants. Enablers to the feasibility of the guidelines were mainly the importance of the messages and the positive impacts that they have on children. Barriers included misinterpretation of the guidelines, specific disease conditions and lack of money and resources. Generally, these barriers could be overcome by thorough and appropriate nutrition education and education on the sustainable use of available resources.Cconclusion: Nutrition is one of the many aspects that affects the development of young children. It is thus an important factor to consider in ensuring that children grow and develop adequately. The Paediatric Food-Based Dietary Guidelines can be used to educate children, parents, caregivers, healthcare providers and educators on the correct nutritional practices for children aged 0–5 years, thereby ensuring the healthy growth and development of young children in South Africa.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University