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On September 23, 2025, demonstrators led by the Democratic Alliance (DA) gathered outside the Department of Social Development in Nelson Mandela Bay to protest the provincial government’s alleged inaction on child malnutrition. The protest comes after 70 children reportedly died from hunger-related causes this year in the Eastern Cape.
What Happened
Chanting “Enough is Enough!”, protestors demanded accountability from Eastern Cape MEC for Social Development Bukiwe Fanta and Premier Oscar Mabuyane. The protest focused on the alarming number of child deaths due to malnutrition and what the DA views as government failure.
“Our children deserve food, not funerals,” the DA said in a public statement.
The protest was peaceful but passionate, calling for immediate intervention to address child hunger and strengthen social support programmes in vulnerable communities.
Official Response
As of the time of writing, no formal response has been issued by either MEC Bukiwe Fanta or Premier Oscar Mabuyane regarding the protest or the reported deaths.
The DA has vowed to continue its campaign until provincial leaders take visible action and implement urgent nutritional support programmes.
Community Impact
The protest has reignited debate around child welfare, poverty, and the effectiveness of provincial social services in the Eastern Cape.
Many community members have expressed deep concern over the high child mortality rate, urging the government to treat child hunger as a public health emergency.
If unaddressed, civil society and political groups warn that the crisis could worsen as the economic strain on poor households intensifies.
FAQ
1: How many children have died due to malnutrition in the Eastern Cape this year?
A: According to the DA, 70 children have died of hunger-related causes in 2025.
2: Who is being held responsible for the crisis?
A: The DA is calling for accountability from MEC Bukiwe Fanta and Premier Oscar Mabuyane.
3: Where did the protest take place?
A: Outside the Department of Social Development offices in Nelson Mandela Bay.
4: What are the protestors demanding?
A: Immediate action to combat child hunger, improved social support systems, and government accountability.
5: Has the government responded?
A: As of now, no official response has been issued by the Eastern Cape provincial leadership.
