Low child development rate raises concern in Tanga

TANGA: LEADERS in Tanga Region have been called upon to intensify efforts to improve early childhood development, with only 46 per cent of children aged between zero and eight years currently attaining full developmental milestones.

Tanga Regional Administrative Secretary, Mr Rashid Mchata, made the call while opening a oneday review meeting on the Early Childhood Care, Growth and Development Programme held in Tanga City midweek. He said the proportion of children achieving full development remains low and has shown little progress, highlighting the need for increased investment in early childhood care.

“Early childhood development is the foundation of any nation.Failure to nurture children properly risks raising a generation with undesirable behaviours,” he said.

Mr Mchata emphasised that investing in children’s early years is essential for building a responsible and productive society, noting that proper upbringing is key to national development.

A representative from the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI), Ms Mariam Mkumbwa, said the review meetings provide a platform for officials to exchange experiences and assess programme implementation.

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“I am encouraged by the progress made in Tanga, where staff have shown strong commitment and dedication,” she said. The Tanzania Early Childhood Development Network also reaffirmed its commitment to working with the government and stakeholders to promote children’s welfare.

“To build a complete individual, proper preparation is essential. We must raise a generation capable of critical thinking and competing effectively,” the organisation said in a statement presented at the meeting. Monitoring Manager for United Help for Tanzania Children, Mr Stephano Simon, said the meeting would strengthen accountability in child care and development efforts.

“Data show that we are not performing well. We have a responsibility to improve the proportion of children achieving full development,” he said.

He also underscored the importance of establishing childcare centres in workplaces and business areas to support parents and improve child welfare. “Children are among the most vulnerable groups to violence. Such centres will help ensure better care, protection and development,” he added.