Community-Based Child Care Centres (CBCCs) are pivotal institutions established and sustained through strong community partnerships to support early childhood development. In the Senior Chief Nthache area of Mwanza district, the Galatiya CBCC stands out as a beacon of progress and innovation.
Clement Khembo, a senior mentor at Galatiya CBCC, reflects on the transformative journey since the centre began participating in the Investing in Early Years project in 2021.
“Through this initiative, we learned about proper child nutrition and diversified meal preparation,” he explains. “We no longer prepare just one type of food; instead, we offer a variety of nutritious meals that include eggs and vegetables, which promote healthier growth among children aged 3 to 6.”
Uniquely, Galatiya CBCC benefits from a community farm generously provided by the local chief. The produce from this farm supplements the children’s diet, ensuring adequate nutrition year-round. The centre also engages in income-generating activities such as poultry rearing, which supports the purchase of educational materials and food supplies.
Currently, 71 children attend Galatiya CBCC, where they are nurtured across six developmental domains intellectual, physical, social, spiritual, learning, and communication.
Group Village Head Galatiya commends the progress: “We have witnessed remarkable changes; children are learning well, and we parents have gained valuable knowledge about proper nutrition. Our community is committed to supporting the centre so children can thrive.”
The Investing in Early Years for Growth and Productivity in Malawi project, supported by the International Development Association and the Global Financing Facility, targets districts with poor nutrition indicators to enhance early childhood care. Galatiya’s experience exemplifies the project’s impact, combining community resources and expert guidance to transform lives.
In conclusion, Galatiya CBCC embodies the principles outlined in Malawi’s Early Childhood Development Policy (2017), which emphasises community involvement and holistic child development. By fostering early learning and nutrition, the centre contributes directly to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), laying a strong foundation for Malawi’s future generations.
Similar interventions are being replicated in Mchinji and Rumphi.
#MBCDigital
#Manthu
