Emirates, European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR), and the Kolisi Foundation have launched the Emirates Nourishment Programme, a four-year initiative to support child nutrition in South Africa.
The programme will deliver approximately 400,000 nutritious breakfasts annually, reaching around 2,000 children through schools and Early Childhood Development Centres in Gauteng, Cape Town and Durban. Over its duration, it is expected to provide 1.6 million meals.
Rugby as a vehicle for social impact
The initiative addresses food insecurity, with breakfast identified as a critical meal often sacrificed by families. Organisers say it improves concentration, classroom participation and learning outcomes.
Siya Kolisi, founder of the Kolisi Foundation, said access to regular meals enables children to focus on learning and personal development. He noted that improved nutrition supports better attendance, cognitive development and classroom participation.
Mahlatse Mashua, Managing Director of the Kolisi Foundation, said consistent access to breakfast creates long-term opportunities by improving learning conditions. The Foundation emphasises interconnected challenges of food security, education and social wellbeing.
Partnership aligns with sport-driven development
Jacques Raynaud, CEO of EPCR, said the programme demonstrates how sport can unite communities and drive positive social impact. He noted it aligns with EPCR’s commitment to creating lasting benefits beyond the field of play.
Afzal Parambil, Emirates’ Regional Manager for South Africa, said the airline aims to use sport as a platform to promote social inclusion and youth development. He noted the partnership seeks to remove barriers to education and opportunity while delivering long-term community impact.
The Emirates Nourishment Programme will run until 2030, representing a sustained effort by all partners to support children’s wellbeing and strengthen foundations for education and future opportunities.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Emirates Nourishment Programme?
The Emirates Nourishment Programme is a four‑year initiative by Emirates, EPCR and the Kolisi Foundation to deliver 400,000 nutritious breakfasts each year to 2,000 children in South Africa.
How many meals will the Emirates Nourishment Programme provide?
The programme will provide approximately 400,000 nutritious breakfasts each year, totaling about 1.6 million meals over its four‑year duration.
Where will the Emirates Nourishment Programme be implemented?
It will be implemented in Gauteng, Cape Town and Durban, targeting children through schools and Early Childhood Development Centres.
Why is breakfast important for children according to the Emirates Nourishment Programme?
Breakfast is a critical meal often sacrificed by families; regular access improves concentration, classroom participation and learning outcomes.
How long will the Emirates Nourishment Programme run?
The programme will run until 2030, providing sustained support for children's wellbeing and educational foundations.
