More than 1,000 Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) teachers from across Busia County have undergone intensive training on nurturing care, in a significant push to improve early childhood outcomes.
The two-day capacity-building workshop, spearheaded by the Directorate of ECDE in collaboration with UNICEF, brought together educators from eight sub-counties—Bunyala, Samia, Matayos, Teso North, Butula, Teso Central, Teso South, and Nambale.
Busia Deputy Governor Arthur Odera officially opened the session, lauding UNICEF for its continued partnership and emphasising the transformative impact of nurturing care. “This approach is built on responsive caregiving, protection, emotional support, and stimulation—is critical in ensuring every child has a strong start in life,” he said.
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The Deputy Governor also credited the county’s improved child health indicators, notably the decline in stunting rates from 36 per cent to 19 per cent, to holistic interventions such as the school feeding program.
UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office, Wangui Karanja, underscored the broader implications of investing in early childhood.
“Nurturing care is a catalyst for building resilient, productive societies. It empowers children to thrive and reach their full potential,” she stated.
Education CECM Beatrice Nakholi said early intervention through nurturing care is key to preventing developmental delays, particularly in vulnerable settings. “By addressing risks like neglect and trauma early, we can safeguard children’s futures,” she noted.
The high-level training also drew participation from senior officials, including the Chief Officer for ECDE Faustine Ounoi, ECDE Director Dr Douglas Barasa, sub-county coordinators, and other key stakeholders.
The initiative is part of a broader effort by Busia County to scale up evidence-based strategies in early childhood education, with officials expressing hope that the model will be replicated nationwide.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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