02 - 05 October - The National Child Development Agency (NCDA) and partners marked Early Childhood Development (ECD) Day in Northern Province and City of Kigali. The events were held on the 2^nd and 5^th October, 2023 respectively. The aim was to underscore the significance of individual, family, and partner contributions to ECD services and children’s well-being.

In the Northern Province, the celebration occurred in Rulindo District where Governor Mugabowagahunde Maurice and Ingabire Assumpta, the Director General of NCDA and different partners joined citizens.

In the City of Kigali, the event took place in Nyarugenge District and brought together Dr. Valentine Uwamaliya, the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, DG Ingabire Assumpta, Urujeni Martine, the Vice Mayor for Social Affairs in the City of Kigali among many other leaders, as well as partners and citizens.

Enhancing service provision in ECD settings through collective efforts of parents, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, religious and faith-based organizations, and the private sector was among key messages that were delivered during these celebrations.

According to Ingabire Assumpta, such a collaboration will help children develop holistically, which will make a great impact on the future of the country.

“Championing early childhood development program is preparing capable citizens and good leaders for the future of our country” she said during the celebration in Northern Province.

On the other hand, Governor Mugabowagahunde Maurice described ECD services as key pillar towards achieving the goal of reducing stunting to 19% by next year. He urged everyone to play his role to make ECD settings more operational for the best interest of the child.

In the City of Kigali, the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, emphasized on the government's dedication to enhancing the early childhood development program as part of its initiative to build knowledge-based economy. She also reminded participants to enhance ECD services that are also provided to parents.  

"ECD services are not given to children only. There are also services provided to parents that help them to take care of themselves while pregnant and lactating in order for the child to grow holistically” She noted.

ECD services are pivotal in enhancing a child’s overall well-being, covering key areas such as nutrition, healthcare, water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), child protection, positive parenting, and cognitive development.