UNIVERSITY OF LIMPOPO
mHealth Maternal Nutrition Education in South Africa (AMEN)
Nourishing Mothers, Nurturing Lives
About the Project
Sub-optimal maternal nutrition is linked with pregnancy complications, maternal obesity, micronutrient deficiencies, adverse birth outcomes and greater risk of maternal and infant mortality. Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has the greatest burden of newborn and maternal deaths. Socioeconomic and educational barriers prevent pregnant women from accessing adequate nutrition, particularly in SSA where a lack of health education and a highly challenged healthcare sector exacerbate these problems.
Mobile health (mHealth) interventions focused on maternal nutritional counselling and health education can bridge existing gaps. The first 1000 days of life (from conception to 2 years of age) lay the foundations for child growth and development. Thus, pregnancy represents a unique window of opportunity to improve both mother and child health outcomes.
The AMEN project (“Personalised mHealth Maternal Nutritional Education for Equitable Nutritional Access and Improved Maternal and Offspring Health Outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa“) is assessing how comprehensive maternal nutritional education, focused on promotion of a balanced diet and responsible consumption of locally available foods, with a potential to achieve food security and improve maternal and neonatal health in South Africa. This project is conducted in partnership with University College Dublin, Ireland, and is funded by Research Ireland and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) under the SDG Challenge Grant Number 24/FIP/SDG/13402.
VISION STATEMENT
The AMEN project envisions a South Africa where every mother has access to the nutrition, knowledge, and support she needs to thrive and give her child the healthiest possible start in life.
MISSION STATEMENT
To improve maternal and child health outcomes across South Africa by ensuring equitable access to nutritious food, culturally appropriate education, and community-based support for pregnant and breastfeeding women. We aim to empower women, strengthen local health systems, and promote sustainable practices that address the root causes of malnutrition and food insecurity.
STRATEGIC GOALS
The AMEN project goals are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and African Agenda Union 2063 as follows;
- SDG 2: Zero hunger through inspiring communities to adopt home farming practices to improve access to nutritious food and establish food security.
- SDG 3: Good well being and health of both expecting mothers and baby.
- SDG 5: Gender equality by empowering pregnant women to establish autonomy on nutrition and entrepreneurship through farming.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for goals; the AMEN projects prides itself in establishing partnerships with active international partners, the Agriculture department in university of Limpopo and local communities, including local farmers. working together with a shared goal of helping pregnant women and their babies through optimal diet.
- African Agenda Union Goals 2063: aim for a peaceful Africa, with a strongly grounded culturally maternal nutrition education for communities of South Africa, where women are empowered and developments are community driven.
Project
Partners
- University College Dublin, Ireland
- University of Limpopo, South Africa
- Research Ireland
- Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
- Societal Impact champion- Dr Tumi Malatji
Information for academic institutions, NGOs, and donors interested in collaboration.
The agricultural collaboration in this project will include educating communities on the identification of healthy food, with acceptable nutritional composition to be consumed by the pregnant and breastfeeding women. Communities will be trained on the production of food crops that can be planted in the backyards as part of food security. Knowledge and skills will be transferred to the communities regarding crop production management practices such as land preparation, creation of seedbed, planting, transplanting, irrigation, weeding, improving soil fertility and management of pests, diseases and any other deficiencies that can affect plant agronomic growth and development. This collaboration is carried out under the guidance of the HOD, prof Paulina Mabapa in the university of Limpopo.
Dr Bango from Limpopo Agro-Food Technology Station, a Food Technologist in partnership to this project will focus on food analysis profiling, the role involves conducting comprehensive nutritional analysis to determine the composition, quality and safety of food products. Food analysis is important for accurate profiling of ingredients and other related compounds, while also interpreting data to enhance product functionality, quality and shelf life. Additionally, all analyses comply with relevant food safety standards and regulatory requirements. The nutritional science insights gained through these partnerships will help guide application development, innovation, and quality improvement within the project.
Our Work / What We Do
mHealth Nutritional Education
The AMEN project leverages mobile health technology to provide personalized nutritional education to pregnant and breastfeeding women. This includes guidance on locally available foods, portion control, balanced diets and micronutrients supplementation.
Community Engagement
The AMEN project collaborates with local communities and health workers to strengthen nutrition education, encourage sustainable practices, and integrate maternal health support into existing healthcare systems.
Sustainable Nutrition & Food Waste Reduction
The AMEN project promotes responsible consumption of local foods and aims to reduce food waste through awareness and practical nutrition planning.
Impact Areas
- Limpopo Province, South Africa
Community
engagement workshop
The Department of Nursing and Public Health hosted its first stakeholders engagement workshop on September 30th, in collaboration with University College Dublin, Ireland. The principal investigators along with agricultural experts and food technologists engaged community leaders, grandmothers, community healthcare workers, mother mentors, midwives, dieticians and farmers on the importance of maternal nutrition, nutritional analysis and home farming. The aim of this workshop was to gather context-specific suggestions from each of the different stakeholder groups to inform adaptation of the mobile Health application and wider AMEN intervention.
Department of Nursing Sciences brings maternal health and nutrition education to Dimamo villages
The villages from Dikgale, Mothiba and Mamabolo recently benefited from maternal health and nutrition education through a stakeholder engagement workshop hosted by the University of Limpopo at Dikgale Royal Council
Meet the Team
Prof. Livhuwani Muthelo
Prof. Livhuwani Muthelo
Professor Livhuwani Muthelo is an Associate Professor in the Nursing Department at the School of Health Care Sciences, University of Limpopo. She holds a PhD in Nursing University of Limpopo, Master’s Degree in Nursing (2017): University of Limpopo, Diploma in Nursing Education (2018): Stellenbosch University, BTech in Occupational Health (2010): Tshwane University of Technology Bachelor of Curationis (2004): University of Limpopo.
Research and Teaching Interests
Professor Muthelo’s research primarily focuses on women’s maternal and child health; occupational health; and the role of digital health on improving the health outcomes. Her research has significantly contributed to improving healthcare delivery and addressing health challenges in South Africa. In the area of digital health, Professor Muthelo has contributed to research on maternal and child health in low- and middle-income countries. She is currently lecturing 3rd level students under the preventative and rehabilitative health care module.
Professional Experience
Prof Muthelo has experience both in academia and professional practice. She has worked as a Senior Professional nurse, Senior Occupational Health and is currently a senior lecturer at the University of Limpopo.
Contributions and Achievements
Prof. Muthelo has published 51 papers and contributed three book chapters in accredited journals, reflecting her deep engagement with her research areas. She has presented five papers at international conferences in the UK, Demark, USA, Brazil, France, Norway, and Sweden, as well as 20 papers at national conferences. She was an academic editor for Plos One Journal (2023); editorial board member; American Journal of Nursing Science (AJNS) (2021-2022) and Community Nursing and Wellness Programs Journal (2022). Currently editor at Plos one and BMC public health journals. She has supervised 7 Masters students and currently supervising 5 Phd and 3 Masters students.
Mr Mxolisi Ngwenya
Mr Mxolisi Ngwenya
Academic Background and Qualifications
- Bachelor of Nursing- UL
- Master of Nursing- UL
- Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Candidate)- UL
Mr. Mxolisi Ngwenya has an extensive experience in midwifery and obstetric high care, holds a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Limpopo and is currently a nGAP Lecturer and PhD candidate at the same institution, in Department of Nursing. His research interests focus on midwifery, women’s health, and digital health, with 16 publications published in international DHET accredited journals in these areas. Mr. Ngwenya is actively involved in research projects that highlight the importance of digital health in improving patient care, particularly for women with high-risk conditions like hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. His focus lies in the integration of digital health technologies in patient care by involving end-users in the design process to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of the digital interventions. He serves as a reviewer for Journals such as BMC Public Health, BMC pregnancy and childbirth, SAGE digital Health, Journal of Medical Internet research, BMC Nursing, Plos One, and BMC health services research. He presented papers in 8 national and international conferences and won 2 awards for best presenter, both oral and poster. He’s currently co-supervising four masters’ students and serve as a co-principal investigator for the AMEN project.
Prof Moshibudi Paulina Bopape-Mabapa
Prof Moshibudi Paulina Bopape-Mabapa
Prof Bopape-Mabapa obtained her Bachelor of Agricultural Management and Bachelor of Agricultural Management Honours (Plant Production) from University of the North in the year 2003 and 2004, respectively. In 2010 she graduated Master of Science in Agriculture (Plant Production) from University of Venda and obtained Doctor of Philosophy Degree in 2019 from the University of Limpopo.
Prof Bopape-Mabapa has over 20 years teaching experience in the institutions on higher learning. She worked as a lecturer at Fort Cox College of Agriculture and Forestry (2004-2005); she then joined University of Venda as Junior Lecturer (2005-2010), she is currently employed by the University of Limpopo, where she joined the University as a Lecturer in 2011 and promoted to Senior Lecturer in 2019, since 2020 she is employed as the Head of the Department of Plant Production, Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering. She is serving in the various departmental, school, faculty and university committees.
Prof Bopape-Mabapa is also engaged in research and supervision of Honours, Masters and Doctoral students. She is also involved in collaborative research and community engagement projects. She received internally and externally funded research grants and she has published her research work (14 publications) in accredited journal articles and also presented at local, national and international conferences. She is a reviewer of national and international journals.
She serves the external examiner for Plant Production modules and dissertations at various institutions (University of Venda, University of Pretoria, University of Mpumalanga, North West University and University of South Africa).
Besides her academic and research responsibilities, she is a member of Baditi Students Support Programme as School Academic Development Practioner/KINDI since 2013. She served as a secretariat during the XIV World Forestry Congress, held in Kwa-Zulu Natal from 7-11 September 2015; and 4th National Conference on Global Change, that was hosted by the University of Limpopo at Bolivia Lodge, from 3-6 December 2018. She is a member of South African Society of Crop Production. She is an advisor for Bakgaga-Ba-Mothapo food security project, where she encourages communities to have backyard gardens.
She serves as a board of Trustees for the Winter Cereal Trust as Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development representative.
Finally, in July 2022 she was appointed the as Global Change Science Committee (GCSC) as a recognized scientist and sector leader in fulfilling the objectives of the Global Change Research Plan in collaboration with the Department of Science and Innovations (DSI).
Ms Motlalepula Nthaki Hayley
Ms Motlalepula Nthaki Hayley
Ms. Motlalepula Nthaki Hayley is a dedicated Research Assistant in the Nursing Department at the University of Limpopo. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Sciences from the University of Limpopo and went on to complete her Master of Science in Medical Sciences, specialising in Medical Microbiology. Her academic background has provided her with a solid foundation in biomedical research and laboratory-based investigations, particularly in infectious diseases.
Her research interests focus on respiratory infections and their impact on public health. She is passionate about contributing to research that advances understanding of disease prevention and management, with the goal of improving community and clinical health outcomes. Her academic and research experience has deepened her understanding of infectious diseases, particularly respiratory infections, and their effects on human health.
Ms. Hayley has been involved in several research initiatives within the department, particularly those addressing health challenges faced by communities in Limpopo Province. She is committed to using her scientific expertise to make a meaningful impact through research and community engagement.
In addition to her academic and research work, she participates in community outreach programmes that promote health awareness and education. Her dedication to public health and knowledge-sharing reflects her commitment to both professional and societal development. She continues to pursue professional growth through collaboration and engagement with the broader scientific community.
Dr Mabitsela Hezekiel ‘Pitso’
Dr Mabitsela Hezekiel ‘Pitso’
Academic Background and Qualifications
Dr. Mabitsela Hezekiel Mphasha is a Registered Dietitian, Public Health Specialist, and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Public Health and Health Systems at the University of Limpopo. He holds a PhD in Public Health and a Master of Public Health (MPH), both obtained from the University of Limpopo. His foundational qualification is a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, and he is currently pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education and Training at the Durban University of Technology.
Research and Teaching Interests
His research focuses on public health nutrition, diabetes prevention and management, and health systems strengthening through community-based, family-centered, and digital interventions.
He previously taught Health Promotion, Community Nutrition, and Bioethics in the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, where he advanced from part-time lecturer to Senior Lecturer in 2024. Currently, he lectures Master’s-level modules in the Department of Public Health and Health Systems, including Principles of Health Systems Management, Introduction to Health Policy, and Theoretical Foundations of Health Systems Management. His teaching philosophy emphasizes participatory and problem-based learning, equipping students for leadership in public health practice and research.
Professional Experience
Dr. Mphasha has extensive experience in academia and professional practice, having served as a Researcher and Senior Lecturer with five years in higher education. His career spans more than a decade as a clinical dietitian and public health practitioner, where he played a key role in designing and implementing nutrition and health programs at community and health system levels.
Contributions and Achievements
Dr. Mphasha is an NRF Y2-rated researcher with over 30 peer-reviewed publications, four book chapters, and numerous national and international conference presentations. He has supervised six master’s graduates and continues to mentor PhD and MPH students, fostering the next generation of public health scholars. He also serves as a Guest Editor for the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health and as an Editorial Board Member for BMC Public Health. He collaborates nationally and internationally.
Impact and Engagement
Dr. Mphasha is actively engaged in community engagement and health advocacy. His scholarly work has been widely cited, reflecting an h-index of 9. He also contributes to the academic community as a peer reviewer for several journals, examiner of dissertations, and collaborator on grant applications and research projects.
Professional Memberships and Certifications
Dr. Mphasha is registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Dietitian (Registration No: DT0037451). He is an active member of the Public Health Association of South Africa (PHASA).
Dr Coshiwe Matildah Makunyane
Dr Coshiwe Matildah Makunyane
Academic Background and Qualifications
Dr. Coshiwe Matildah Makunyane is a Registered Professional Nurse, Public Health Specialist, and Postdoctoral Fellow in the Nursing Department at the University of Limpopo. She holds a PhD in Public Health obtained from UNISA and a Master of Public Health (MPH), obtained from the University of Limpopo. Her foundational qualification is Diploma in Nursing General (Community, Psychiatry) and Midwifery, B Cur Nursing Science, BTech Occupational Health, Post Graduate diploma in Primary Health Care and Advanced certificate in Human Resource Management.
Research and Teaching Interests
She is in a Post Doc fellow in the Amen Project. She previously taught Project Management and Health Systems Management in the school of Public Health as a part-time senior lecture in 2018 and 2019.
Professional Experience
Dr. Makunyane has experience in academia and professional practice, having served as a part time Senior Lecturer with 2years in higher education and 3years in a nursing school. Her career spans more than 30years as a clinical nurse practitioner, 1year Acting Quality Assurance manager in a regional hospital.
Contributions and Achievements
Dr. Makunyane has 2peer-reviewed publications, and 1 national and 1 international conference presentations.
Professional Memberships and Certifications
Dr. Makunyane is a member of the Limpopo Health Research committee and is registered with the South African Nursing Council (Reg Number 14018048).
Dr Happy Bango
Dr Happy Bango
- Academic Background and Qualifications
PhD in Agriculture (Plant Production). 2023. University of Limpopo.
Master of Science in Horticulture, 2019. University of Limpopo.
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Plant Production, 2017. University of Limpopo.
Certificate in Project Management: Principles and Practices, 2021. University of Stellenbosch Business School – Executive Development.
- Research and Teaching Interests
Dr. Bango’s research interests focus on the utilization and commercialization of indigenous crops for sustainable economic development. His work explores the intersection of agricultural innovation, food science and entrepreneurship, with emphasis on the following areas:
- Crop Development: Investigating underutilized African crops for value addition and market potential.
- Nutrient Optimization: Research on NPK fertilizer optimization to enhance the growth performance, yield, and nutritional quality of indigenous crops.
- Product Innovation and Commercialization: Development of high-value products, including an iced tea beverage formulated from indigenous crops, as part of efforts to promote local resource-based enterprises.
- Sustainable Agribusiness Models: Exploring how indigenous crops can contribute to food security, biodiversity conservation, and inclusive economic growth.
- Professional Experience
- Contributions and Achievements
Publication in peer reviewed journal
- Bango, H., Shadung, K. G and P. W. Mashela. 2019. Influence of Nemarioc-AL and Nemafric-BL phytonematicides on mineral nutrient elements in tomato leaf tissues under field conditions. Research on Crops 20 (3): 590-595.
- Bango, H., Mphosi, M. S and K. G. Shadung. 2022. Optimizing NPK fertilizer requirements for Jatropha zeyheri tea under greenhouse conditions. Research on Crops 23 (3): 703-709.
- Bango, H. and M. S. Mphosi. 2023. Effect of increased fertilization on the phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activity of Jatropha zeyheri tea under greenhouse conditions. Research on Crops 24 (2): 384-390.
- Bango, H., Mphosi, M. S and K. G. Shadung. 2023. NPK fertilizer requirements for Jatropha zeyheri indigenous tea under microplot conditions. Journal of Material Sciences and Engineering Technology 1 (4): 1-5.
- Bango, H., Mphosi, M. S and K. G. Shadung. 2024. Impact of varied rates of NPK fertilizer on the microbial diversity of Jatropha zeyheri tea leaves under greenhouse conditions. Research on Crops 25 (1): 145-150.
- Mutshekwa, N., Mphosi, M. S and Bango. 2024. Influence of irrigation intervals on essential nutrient content in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) seeds. Research on Crops 25 (4).
- Bango, H., Mphosi, M. S, Shadung, K. G. and N. Mutshekwa. 2025. Influence of primary nutrients on the essential and non-essential mineral elements of Jatropha zeyheri tea under greenhouse conditions. Research on Crops 26 (1): 138-146.
- Mutshekwa, N., Mphosi, M. S and Bango. 2025. Response of nutritional water productivity in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) seeds to irrigation interval. Research on Crops 26 (1): 107-115.
Projects
Jatropha zeyheri tea domestication and possible product development funded by TIA-SAB Seedfund
Awards
- NRF Postgraduate Scholarships (Scarce skills) (2021 – 2022), R175 000 per year
- SAB TIA Seed Fund (2023 – 2024), R425 000 once off
- Impact and Engagement
Dr. Bango is actively involved in mentorship, community development, and professional engagement, demonstrating a strong commitment to applying research for societal and economic impact.
- Mentorship: Provides guidance and supervision to undergraduate and postgraduate students in entrepreneurship, business management, and product innovation, particularly those focusing on indigenous resources and local enterprise development.
- Community Engagement: Engages with local farming communities and small enterprises to promote the cultivation and commercial use of indigenous crops. His outreach activities include training sessions on sustainable farming practices, value addition and agro-based entrepreneurship.
- Professional Involvement: Collaborates with industry partners, universities, and technology transfer offices to facilitate research translation and commercialisation. Actively participates in business development initiatives that support SMMEs and women entrepreneurs in rural areas.
- Professional Memberships or Certifications
- Bango H. Academic Member of the Athens Institute for Education and Research since 2024, affiliated with the Sciences Unit.
- Bango H. Member of South African Society of Crop Production since 2024, with Combined Congress.
CONTACT DETAILS
Tel: 015 268 3973/4652
Email: mxolisi.ngwenya@ul.ac.za