Global aid cuts risk erasing $163B in returns by 2030. Investing in children yields $10 for every $1—yet child-focused aid is shrinking fast.

Amanda Rives unpacks the root causes of the escalating food crisis, along with the consequences of shrinking aid, and urges international actors to renew their commitment to ending the hunger crisis

In many rural communities, families face significant obstacles in ensuring children receive proper nutrition and healthcare. Jenifer Nyoto Nyambe, a 69-year-old grandmother, experienced this firsthand when she suddenly found herself in a maternal role once again. Her daughter passed away in 2023, just three months after giving birth to her baby, Maybin. Left in Jenifer’s care with limited resources, the young child faced a difficult start, malnourished and struggling to thrive.

Mayibongwe Mhlongo, the only male among 50 trainees in a Rural Health Motivator programme, is breaking gender norms and bringing vital health knowledge to his community in Maseyisini, Eswatini—thanks to a World Vision and Ministry of Health partnership.

In the rural areas of Zambia, a remarkable change is taking shape thanks to the dedication of local nutrition supporters. Women like Vera Mufungulwa, 48 years old, are playing a vital role in helping mothers and children thrive by sharing practical knowledge about food. It’s not about complicated solutions, but about understanding how to make the most of what’s available right here at home.

Matukeng Health Centre transforms through World Vision’s support; improved care, warm facilities, and empowered health committees lead the change.

World Vision Eswatini warns of a growing mental health crisis at Malindza Refugee Reception Centre, driven by trauma and overcrowding. The Ndzevane Project aims to ease pressure through sustainable resettlement and livelihoods support.

World Vision Southern Africa, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and the Global Fund, is implementing adolescent-friendly spaces (AFS) across Zambia to support young people in making informed Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) decisions. Through the IMPACT+ model, a life skills approach integrating education, behavior change, and service-learning, over 36,000 out-of-school adolescents have been reached with SRH interventions, empowering them to navigate challenges like early pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, and peer pressure. By equipping peer educators and health workers with IMPACT+ skills, the initiative fosters safe spaces where adolescents can access SRHR education, receive guidance, and build confidence. With increased community involvement and government support, this model is paving the way for sustainable adolescent health and well-being in the region.

Win Win Phyu is the Director and co-founder of Swan In Thit, a woman-led local civil society organisation based in Kayah State, Myanmar. A dedicated grassroots leader, she champions gender equality, child protection, education, and sustainable livelihoods. As a mother of six children and long-time community advocate, Win Win Phyu draws strength from her personal journey and her father’s legacy of service. Through Swan In Thit, she works to challenge harmful traditions, support survivors of gender-based violence, and build leadership among rural women who are too often excluded from decision-making spaces. In the face of political and economic adversity, Win Win Phyu remains a powerful voice for inclusion, resilience, and justice—leading change from the heart.