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By Isabella Maua
Bungoma governor Kennneth Lusaka has called for the adoption of an early childhood development (ECD) program in the Lake Region Economic Bloc Counties.
Speaking during a LREB meeting in Kisumu that was also attended by the area governor, Anyang Nyong’o, Lusaka called for other counties, including but not limited to Bungoma, Homabay, Migori, Busia, Kakamega, and Vihiga, to be brought on board to nurture young learners.
Lusaka stated that ECD creates a firm foundation for young children so that they will have a bright future as they pursue their education.
The model, which has been piloted successfully in Siaya County, is being supported by partners like KMET Smart Start Foundation, Thabiti Africa, Child Fund, UNICEF, and PATH, who have played a vital role in its success.
Lusaka, who is the LREB vice chairperson, said the bloc is doing well in promoting and nurturing care for early childhood development.
“We are here to benchmark with other counties because ECD is a devolved unit and the pillar for early childhood learning,” he said.
“As a county, we are building and financing the construction of early childhood development classes to facilitate and cement the learners early education,” he observed.
Lusaka reiterated that despite the challenges, they are working towards giving a child a viable early education for the benefit of their future.
“We need to be innovative and conscious of the needs of our children because the foundation for their educational growth is very important,” he emphasized.
LREB is mandated to utilize its education pillar for the promotion of development research, innovation, social planning, and coordination of activities.
In partnership with other development partners, the education pillar works to upscale the nurturing care of early childhood development by employing a multi-sectorial approach to child investment.
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Bungoma County is recognized for supporting a robust feeding program for ECDE pupils through the Skip a Lunch initiative by the First Lady, Dr. Margaret Makelo, aimed at sustaining learners in school.
In attendance were LREB First Ladies, County Education CECM Dr. David Wamamili, the Hilton Foundation, and other Development partners.