There are over a million births in South Africa each year. To see a new narrative for the future of these children, there needs to be a Whole of Society Approach. Consider for a moment how well-positioned churches are: there are over 43 000 churches in South Africa, reaching into almost every community across our nation. Close on 80% of South Africans affiliate themselves with the Christian faith. Sikunye works to mobilise and equip churches to use what they have to strengthen families. As a social actor, churches have innate assets that can be utilised to support families in this important window of time. They have the ability to create community, to accompany people through their lives, to tell stories and make meaning, to give sanctuary and to be present and available when other services are not open. The church has a powerful role to play in seeing all children get a strong start to life.
