June 2025 — In the heart of Makueni County, Kenya, a powerful movement is taking root—one that could redefine the future of thousands of children. On April 7 and 8, 2025, a landmark initiative brought together 1,000 Early Childhood Development (ECD) teachers for a comprehensive training program aimed at strengthening the foundation of Kenya’s youngest generation.

This initiative, a collaboration between UNICEF and the Makueni County Government, was led by Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili and facilitated by UNICEF Kenya’s Chief of Nutrition, Ismael Teta. It represents a bold commitment to investing in the early years of life—a period that science and experience alike have shown to be critical for lifelong development.

The Power of the Early Years

Early Childhood Development refers to the physical, cognitive, emotional, language, and social growth of children from birth to age 8, with a special emphasis on the first 1,000 days from conception. These early years are a time of rapid brain development and learning, laying the groundwork for future health, education, and economic productivity.

“ECD is at the centre of our mission, putting children first and ensuring their rights are fully realized,” said Jayne Kariuki-Njuguna, UNICEF’s Social Behaviour Change Specialist. “By prioritizing ECD, we can break cycles of poverty and inequality, giving every child a fair start.”

The training in Makueni focused on the five pillars of nurturing care: good health, adequate nutrition, responsive caregiving, opportunities for early learning, and safety and security. These components are essential for holistic child development and were at the heart of the sessions delivered to the teachers.

Equipping Teachers to Be Community Leaders

Elizabeth Muli, Makueni’s County Executive Committee Member for ICT, Education, and Internship, emphasized the importance of empowering teachers not just as educators, but as community leaders. “To ensure that every child in Makueni can thrive, they must have access to nurturing care both at home and in school. By imparting these principles during the training, we enable teachers to support children’s development across all aspects of their lives.”

The training also introduced teachers to practical tools and strategies for identifying developmental delays, promoting inclusive education, and encouraging positive parenting practices. These skills are vital in a context where many children face barriers to accessing quality early learning and care.

“Kuwa Kocha”: A Campaign Rooted in Culture and Community

A highlight of the training was the introduction of the “Kuwa Kocha” campaign—Swahili for “Be a Coach.” This multimedia Social and Behaviour Change initiative, co-created by UNICEF and the Ministries of Health, Education, and Labour & Social Protection, draws inspiration from the African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child.”

The campaign provides teachers with engaging materials such as posters, colouring books, and guides designed to promote quality ECD services and foster community-wide support. By equipping teachers with these tools, the campaign aims to amplify their role as advocates for children’s rights and well-being.

Addressing the Investment Gap

While Makueni’s efforts are commendable, they also highlight a broader challenge: Kenya’s national investment in ECD remains significantly below regional standards. The country allocates just $81 per child annually to ECD, compared to an average of $138 across Eastern and Southern Africa. Public financing for ECD accounts for less than 1% of total government spending.

This funding gap limits the reach and quality of ECD services, particularly in underserved areas. However, there is hope. Kenya is currently reviewing an Integrated ECD Policy that aims to provide a cohesive framework for delivering ECD services nationwide. UNICEF is actively advocating for its adoption and chairs a multi-sectoral task force to coordinate ECD efforts across various sectors.

Reaching 43,000 Children—and Beyond

The impact of the training is expected to be far-reaching. Nearly 43,000 children aged 3 to 6 in Makueni County stand to benefit directly through improved early childhood services, enhanced school readiness, and better learning outcomes. But the ripple effects go even further.

These trained teachers are envisioned as change agents—champions of positive parenting, early stimulation, and inclusive practices. Their influence extends beyond the classroom, into homes and communities, where they can help reduce harmful practices such as violent discipline and promote safer, more nurturing environments for children.

A National Call to Action

The training of ECD teachers in Makueni County is more than a milestone—it’s a call to action. It demonstrates what is possible when local leadership, international partnerships, and community engagement come together with a shared vision. As Kenya moves toward a more integrated and equitable ECD system, Makueni’s example offers a powerful blueprint for other counties to follow.

By investing in the early years, Kenya is not only nurturing its children—it is cultivating the roots of a more prosperous, inclusive, and resilient future.