Nairobi, September 20, 2024
Nairobi City County’s progressive approach to childcare and women’s empowerment continues to gain international recognition, exemplified by a visit from delegates representing the Institute of Early Childhood Development, Seychelles, the Institute of Local Government Studies, Ghana; the Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee, Kenya, the National Gender & Equality Commission, Kenya, Collaborative Action for Childcare, and the Local Public Sector Alliance (LPSA).
The delegation was received by the County’s Executive for Talent, Skills, Development, and Care Mr. Brian Mulama, Discussions focused on sharing Nairobi’s innovative childcare initiatives and women’s empowerment strategies. Seychelles and Ghana aim to benchmark these progressive practices as part of the Localizing Women’s Economic Empowerment in Africa Project, organized by the LPSA.
The County Executive said “Today, we reaffirm our commitment to enhancing the childcare industry in Nairobi. Inclusivity for all through supporting free Early Childhood Development (ECD) programs run by boards of management at ECD centers, with the county providing Kshs 3,200 per year for each child. This initiative not only drives parental engagement as families’ budget for these funds but also ensures that resources are utilized effectively to support our children and empower our caregivers.”
“Collaboration by partnering with local institutions to offer parental guidance and raise awareness on childcare practices, ensuring our communities are sensitized. Each of our Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers includes a playground and kitchen facilities, bolstered by the ‘Dishi Na County’ program, which has greatly increased enrollment by providing children with free lunches,” he added.
Chief Officer, Early Childhood Education and Vocational Training ,Mr. Ahmed Abdi weighed in by stating, “Understanding the long-term impacts of early trauma on children aged 0-5 is crucial. We are dedicated to training our childcare workers to provide the best care and support for our children, as they represent the future of our society.”
Ms. Maryam Dahir, Chief Officer, Gender and Inclusivity on her part said, “We must continue to work toward an inclusive future for all our children more so those with disabilities. They represent some of the most vulnerable members of our community, and we must work to create inclusive environments that nurture their development and well-being.”
Ms. Ruth Owuor, Director of Education, walked the delegates through Nairobi County’s notable education programs and milestones in the childcare sector. She noted, “We welcome learning from best practices on childcare. Nairobi County is the pioneer in enacting the Childcare Facilities Act in 2017, setting the groundwork for proper regulation and standardization across the sector.”
Nairobi County’s initiatives are a cornerstone of H.E. Governor Sakaja’s manifesto, which prioritizes the well-being and development of children as essential to the future of Nairobi. The visit provided a platform for knowledge exchange, highlighting the county’s efforts in community sensitization regarding childcare, the formalization of the childcare industry, and the importance of supporting vulnerable children.
The Nairobi City County Government remains committed to collaboration with regional partners to enhance women’s economic empowerment and improve childcare services across the region.
In attendance were deputy directors, Peter Miano and Raphael Kinyungu, assistant directors Irene Ndanga and Rosalia Mueni, Shirleen Choppy, representing the Institute of Early Childhood Development – Seychelles.
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