Namibia has initiated a family-focused early childhood development programme in Kavango West aimed at reducing the nation’s 34.4% stunting rate among children under five, with a comprehensive approach involving health, nutrition, and community engagement.
Namibia has started rolling out a family-based early childhood development programme in Nkurenkuru, in Kavango West, as authorities try to tackle a stunting rate of 34.4% among children under five. The launch brings together the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, the education ministry and the Nutrition and Food Security Alliance of Namibia, with officials saying the aim is to give children a stronger start in life through better care at home and in the community.
At the launch, nutritionist Fredrika Amupolo warned that poor diets and a lack of stimulation in the home can affect a child’s ability to keep up once schooling begins. According to Namibia Press Agency coverage, she said only a small share of children attend early childhood centres and many struggle with basic reading and maths by Grade 3. She also said physical punishment remains widespread in households and can damage development by making children fearful.
Regional leader Fillipus Tenga said the Right Start Programme is meant to reach every child, regardless of where they are born or the circumstances of their family. The programme follows the Nurturing Care Framework, which centres on health, nutrition, responsive caregiving, early learning and safety. Tenga said rural areas will need more health posts, mobile clinics and community gardens if the effort is to work beyond towns and larger settlements.
Loide Velishavo, acting community development director at the gender ministry, said the government is now introducing family-based ECD and Right Start as part of a wider transfer of early childhood responsibilities to the education ministry. She said the system will include centre-based ECD, family-based ECD and Right Start, with community meetings planned so the programme reaches as many people as possible and children are not left out of the new early years framework.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
