ADDIS ABABA – Health professionals and early childhood development advocates have emphasized the critical importance of nurturing care in the early years of life, saying it lays the foundation for a healthy, productive, and responsible generation.
The call was made during a dissemination workshop organized by the African Center for Early Childhood Development (AfC-ECD) here yesterday.
AfC-ECD Chief Executive Officer Kebede Worku (MD) stated that early childhood is a crucial period in which the interaction between young children and their environment shapes their physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and language development.
He noted that AfC-ECD, which was established by the Addis Ababa City Administration, is working to expand best practices in nurturing care to all states in order to improve children’s well-being across Ethiopia.
Kebede described the center as a dynamic hub for learning, innovation, and collaboration in early childhood development. He explained that AfC-ECD is committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive through the implementation of coordinated programs, research, and strategic partnerships.
“As a catalyst for change, our center supports sectors in delivering high-quality early childhood development services,” he said. “By doing so, we are helping children build a strong foundation to contribute meaningfully to a prosperous and sustainable future for Ethiopia and the continent at large.”
AfC-ECD Deputy CEO Meseret Zelalem underlined the vital role that parents, family members, and caregivers play in providing nurturing care during the early years of a child’s life. She emphasized that secure and supportive family environments are essential for the healthy growth and development of young children.
Meseret highlighted five interdependent and essential components of nurturing care: good health, adequate nutrition, safety and security, responsive care giving, and opportunities for early learning. She called for comprehensive policies, supportive services, and community-based programs to empower caregivers and provide them with the time and resources needed to raise children effectively.
“To reach their full potential, children need holistic care from their earliest days. Raising awareness among parents and caregivers is crucial to achieving meaningful and sustainable results,” she said.
Both officials stressed that investment in early childhood development is not just a social priority, but also a strategic investment in the country’s future. They called for stronger collaboration among government sectors, communities, and development partners to promote nurturing care practices and ensure every Ethiopian child has the opportunity to succeed.
BY MENGESHA AMARE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 12 JUNE 2025
