Canal Walk Shopping Centre was abuzz recently as Compact Food Solutions (CFS) launched its “Raise a Life. Raise a Nation.” awareness campaign — part of a national effort to combat child stunting in South Africa. The event, which ran from Wednesday 29 October to Sunday 2 November, brought families, shoppers, and community members together to learn about the critical role of child nutrition in shaping the country’s future.
In a nation celebrated for its generosity and ubuntu, the reality remains stark: one in four South African children is growing up stunted — a condition caused by chronic undernutrition that permanently limits growth and brain development. Determined to change that, Jenny Martin, Managing Director of Compact Food Solutions, is leading the charge from her Cape Town base.
“When we nourish a child, we fuel a future,” says Martin. “We raise healthier, happier children who will one day raise families, communities, and our nation.”
Understanding the challenge
According to the SADHS 2016/2024 UNICEF report, 29% of South African children under five are stunted — often up to 15cm shorter than expected for their age, and with as much as 40% of brain development lost during their first 1 000 days of life. While irreversible, stunting is entirely preventable. CFS produces lipid-based nutrient supplements (LNS-MQ) that meet WHO and UNICEF standards and distributes them through accredited NGOs to early childhood centres. These small sachets, added to a child’s food, fill vital nutritional gaps between six and twenty-three months.
“These sachets might look small, but their impact is enormous,” says Martin. “They help children grow, learn, and thrive.”
Voices from shoppers
At the Canal Walk activation, shoppers were encouraged to interact with displays, learn about early nutrition, and pledge support through micro-donations. The event drew strong community engagement and heartfelt responses.
“I had no idea stunting was this widespread,” said Leigh-Anne Jacobs from Durbanville. “It’s eye-opening — and I’m proud to see a local company taking the lead.”
“As a dad, this really struck a chord,” added Sibusiso Dlamini from Claremont. “It reminded me that proper nutrition is not a luxury — it’s a basic right.”
Retired nurse Mary Humphreys from Milnerton said: “Seeing people stop, listen, and care gives me hope. This is how real change begins — with awareness.”
Leadership with purpose
With over 25 years’ experience in pharmaceuticals and consumer healthcare, Martin has always combined business expertise with a deep sense of purpose. Under her leadership, CFS has strengthened its local manufacturing footprint and built lasting partnerships with NGOs and community organisations.
“As a mother, I’ve seen how nutrition shapes a child’s potential,” she says. “As a leader, I know how collective action shapes a nation. It’s time to bring those truths together.”
The “Raise a Life. Raise a Nation.” campaign will continue beyond National Children’s Day, with CFS planning more community activations in 2025. “Even a small act — visiting a stand, making a micro-donation, or simply spreading the word — helps give a child the start they deserve,” says Martin.
