Ilifa Labantwana is a South African systems-change organisation working towards universal access to quality early childhood development services that benefit children and women in low-income households.
Quality early childhood development for all children that also supports caregivers, creates sustainable livelihoods for women, and builds an equitable and prosperous South Africa.
Outside play at an early learning programme, Ugu District, Kwa-Zulu Natal (2015)
Early learning programme in Cape Winelands District, Western Cape (2025)
We use our technical expertise and deep understanding of government, alongside evidence, collaboration, and advocacy, to strengthen the early childhood development ecosystem.
We work towards seven strategic goals that are necessary preconditions for universal early childhood service provision and a flourishing women-led care sector. Explore our goals below or read an overview of our work here.
Only sustainable government systems can address the mass exclusion of children, caregivers, and early childhood service providers from quality services, support, recognition, and growth. We resolve the systemic problems that obstruct government systems.
