In July 2025, Iringa Development of Youth, Disabled and Children Care (IDYDC), through the Mtoto Kwanza Project, led a successful three-day field visit across the districts of Kilolo, Mufindi, and Mafinga Town Council (TC). The visit was conducted in collaboration with the Regional Social Welfare Officer and Child-Focused Lead Journalists. This important outreach aimed at promoting inclusive Early Childhood Development (ECD) by engaging hard-to-reach groups—especially children with disabilities, those in vulnerable family settings, and those living in care institutions or attending inclusive schools.
The Mtoto Kwanza Project is a national initiative spearheaded by the Tanzania Early Childhood Development Network (TECDEN) in partnership with Children in Crossfire (CiC), and implemented across all 26 regions of mainland Tanzania. It is funded by the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation and aligns with the government’s National Multisectoral Early Childhood Development Programme (NM-ECDP) 2021/22–2025/26. In Iringa Region, IDYDC was selected as the lead Civil Society Organization (CSO) to coordinate implementation at the regional level.
Why This Visit Mattered
Children with disabilities or those living in difficult circumstances often face multiple barriers to accessing quality care and development services. This field visit aimed to ensure that these children are fully included in all stages of the early childhood development journey. The team engaged directly with caregivers, teachers, young mothers, religious leaders, and local government officers to promote collaboration and inclusive practices.
Kilolo District
The delegation began the visit at Ilula Orphanage Program (IOP), a centre that provides care and support to children in vulnerable circumstances. At IOP, stakeholders held participatory discussions with caregivers, youth, young mothers, and faith-based leaders. The session focused on strengthening parenting skills, emotional support systems, and the community’s role in inclusive ECD.
Mufindi District
In Mufindi, the team visited Sisi ni Kesho Centre, a long-standing institution established by the Catholic Church in 2001. The centre supports children with disabilities and those facing complex life situations. The visit involved interactive sessions with teachers, caregivers, ward officials, and “fit persons”—those entrusted with the care of vulnerable children. The discussions helped surface opportunities to improve early identification and specialized care for children with special needs.
Mafinga Town Council
In Mafinga TC, the team visited Amani Inclusive Primary School, where they observed efforts to improve infrastructure, particularly a dormitory for learners with special needs recently inaugurated by the National Torch. IDYDC and partners provided educational sessions to learners on their rights and responsibilities, while also offering training to teachers and caregivers on inclusive care approaches.
A major concern raised was the lack of a school perimeter fence, which poses safety risks for children, especially those with mobility or cognitive challenges. The day concluded with a visit to Makalala Primary School, where the team assessed dormitory conditions and conducted community learning sessions focused on nurturing and protective environments.
Key Outcomes from the Visit
- Enhanced Collaboration: The initiative strengthened ties between civil society, local government, educators, caregivers, and religious institutions.
- Emerging Priorities: The visits helped identify critical gaps in services and infrastructure, guiding future resource allocation and advocacy.
- Improved Awareness: Community members demonstrated increased understanding and readiness to support children with disabilities and those in vulnerable situations.
About the Mtoto Kwanza Project
The Mtoto Kwanza Project aims to strengthen coordination and advocacy around the National Multisectoral Early Childhood Development Programme (NM-ECDP). At the national level, TECDEN facilitates coordination among civil society actors. At the regional level, CSOs like IDYDC lead advocacy, capacity building, and multi-sectoral alignment. Locally, the project empowers media and communities to amplify grassroots voices and increase demand for inclusive, quality ECD services.
In Iringa, IDYDC continues to champion the rights and development of all children; especially those most at risk ensuring they grow up safe, supported, and ready to reach their full potential.