Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has committed his administration to improving early childhood development (ECD), highlighting concerning statistics on school readiness, nutrition, and emotional well-being among children.

Speaking at the launch of an ECD program at the Kempinski Hotel in Nairobi, Governor Sakaja acknowledged the challenges young learners face and stressed the need for immediate action.

“Only 21 percent of our households are food secure, meaning the majority lack enough food. This is why programs like ‘Dishi na County’ are crucial to ensuring no child goes hungry,” Sakaja said.

The Governor also emphasized that his administration is mapping informal schools across Nairobi to expand the Dishi na County program, ensuring more children have access to school meals.

“We will connect informal schools to public schools so their students can also benefit from these food programs,” Sakaja stated.

Additionally, he announced plans to establish playgrounds in every ward to create safe spaces for children to play and grow.

“Nairobi will serve as a benchmark in efforts to ensure the wholesome well being of children age 0-6 in all aspects of development” Sakaja said

Suzanne Silantoi, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Nutrition, revealed that 7,820 Community Health Promoters (CHPs) will be trained to provide parental coaching on nurturing care.

“Additionally, 800 public healthcare workers will be trained to integrate nurturing care practices into mainstream healthcare services,” Silantoi confirmed.

Professor Amina Abubakar, Director of the Institute for Human Development at Aga Khan University, emphasized the importance of early childhood development, describing it as a critical period of both vulnerability and opportunity. She noted that 90% of a child’s brain development occurs before the age of five, making quality ECD essential for long-term success.

“Quality ECD leads to better educational outcomes as children grow. While nutrition remains crucial, the Sakaja Dishi na County program has been a game-changer,” she said.

Dr. Kesete Admasu, CEO of Big Win Philanthropy, acknowledged the various challenges children face and praised Nairobi’s efforts, particularly the Dishi na County initiative, which ensures children receive proper nutrition through school meals.

“Nairobi will serve as a benchmark for efforts to ensure that children receive meals in schools,” Dr. Admasu affirmed.

This initiative aligns with Governor Sakaja’s broader vision of enhancing child welfare in Nairobi, further reinforcing the county’s commitment to investing in the future of its youngest residents.