Hundreds of caregivers nurturing young children across Uasin Gishu County have been celebrated for the dedication to their calling, during celebrations organized by the County Government in partnership with the Early Education Resource Unit International (EERUi).
Speaking during the event, the County Executive Committee Member for Education, Vocational Training, Gender, Culture, Social Protection and Library Services, Eng. Lucy Ng’endo, commended the caregivers for their unwavering dedication to nurturing young minds and fostering holistic growth.
Ngendo noted that caregivers not only support working mothers but also create safe and loving atmosphere that nurture confidence and a sense of belonging among children.
“Caregivers help many mothers pursue life goals while ensuring a safe environment for child growth and development,” said Eng. Ng’endo, adding that the County Government continues to sensitize communities on the importance of establishing more daycare centers across Uasin Gishu.
Eng. Ng’endo further revealed that the County Government has developed and enacted a Child Protection Policy aimed at strengthening the welfare and safety of children within the county.
On her part, Chief Officer for Gender and Social Protection, Marion Birgen, lauded EERUi for its partnership with the county in empowering caregivers through capacity-building initiatives.
“Children face various challenges while under care, and this partnership with EERUi has been instrumental in equipping caregivers with essential knowledge and skills to safeguard them,” said Mrs. Birgen.
EERUi Founder and CEO, Simon Wamu, noted that most of the supported caregivers come from informal settlements, where the need for quality child care is greatest.
He disclosed that over 2,000 caregivers have already been identified and trained, with the organization providing them with play materials, toys, and practical training on how to utilize locally available resources to enhance sustainability.
“We have empowered caregivers to be creative and resourceful, reducing dependency on purchased items while improving the quality of early learning,” said Wamu.
EERUi has also extended its training programs to Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) coordinators, further boosting the quality and standards of early learning and child protection in Uasin Gishu County.
Held under the theme “Children: Our Hope and Our Future,” the gala aimed to recognize and highlight the contribution of caregivers in supporting early childhood development and promoting the welfare of young children across the county.
By Fredrick Maritim
