First Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, Honourable Malungo Chisangano has urged parents to support and nurture children under conducive domestic environments.

Speaking when she officially opened the National Dialogue on Childcare, held under the theme “Investment in the early years: A Strategic Action for Human Capital Development,” Hon, Chisangano said that such environments are important for raising responsible children who can contribute effectively towards the country’s development.

Honourable Chisangano said the dialogue was an essential platform for the stakeholders to share best practices on how families could be supported in raising children who would not only survive, but thrive, achieve their full potential and positively impact communities.

 “It is my sincere hope that we will actively participate in these discussions and make meaningful recommendations to address the challenges such as poverty, chronic malnutrition and limited resources,” said Hon Chisangano.

“These issues impact children's development across cognitive, language, motor, social and emotional domains, which are crucial for problem-solving and thinking skills."

Hon. Chisangano further said that there was urgent need to tackle societal challenges such as high crime rates, street children, early marriages and child abuse through a multi-sectoral approach.

“There is need of stakeholder support for increased investment in Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Childcare Services to equip communities with the tools necessary to protect and nurture young children.”

Honourable Chisangano also called on Members of Parliament (MPs) to champion ECD initiatives within their constituencies as this would ensure that parents nurtured their children under positive environments.

In a speech delivered by Permanent Secretary Ms Angela Kawandami on behalf of the Community Development and Social Services Minister, Ms. Doreen Mwamba said the Government is committed to policy initiatives that promote child development. She said the growth of Early Childhood Development (ECD) hubs established in collaboration with UNICEF, has created essential platforms for community dialogue on child wellbeing.

Meanwhile, Chieftainess Kawaza of the Chewa people in Katete District, Eastern Province thanked the Government and UNICEF for their collaborative efforts in ECD programs, noting their positive impact in reducing early childhood marriages in her Chiefdom.

And United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Zambia Country Representative, Ms. Penelope Campbell reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to working with the Government to expand ECD hubs across Zambia.“Through these hubs, we can help communities promote nurturing care practices that benefit both young children and their caregivers,” said Ms. Campbell.