County adopts smart start initiative for early childhood development

By Peter Ochieng

The county governor net of Bungoma has taken a significant step towards improving Early Childhood Development (ECD) in the Western region devolved unit.

Governor Kenneth Lusaka’s administration on Monday adopted the Nurturing Care for Early Childhood Development (NCfECD) framework, under the Smart Start Initiative.

Bungoma Deputy Governor Janepher Mbatiany put pen to paper on behalf of the county, in a ceremony witnessed by six First Ladies from various counties, within the Lake Region Economic Block (LREB).

LREB First Ladies in attendance included Dorothy Nyong’o (Kisumu), Betty Orengo (Siaya), Janet Kassily Barasa (Kakamega), Emily Nyaribo (Nyamira) and Agnes Ayacko (Migori).

DG Mbatiany highlighted the county's ongoing efforts in child welfare, including the notable reduction in early teenage pregnancies from 21% to 19%, while Bungoma’s First Lady, Dr. Margaret Makelo, hailed the initiative as a crucial advancement for the region.

Initially piloted in Siaya by the Hilton Foundation in 2018, the Smart Start Initiative is now being implemented across seven counties in Bungoma.

The program targets the first 1,000 days of a child's life, with the goal of ensuring that all children aged 0-9 have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

In May 2024, Migori County announced its adoption of the Smart Start Initiative for Early Childhood Development.

Leaders present, among them Mrs Ayacko committed to make child development a top priority through leadership, funding, and community involvement.

“We’re determined to make sure everyone in the community feels part of this initiative, and to ensure its long-term success with proper financing and sustainability plans in place," said the Migori county First Lady.

“We’re also excited to replicate the successful Smart Start Siaya model across LREB, which we believe will make a big difference globally.”

The initiative involves various sectors working together to support children’s development. with particular focus on early days from pregnancy through their first thousand days of life.