Advocates urge more investment in children

DAR ES SALAAM: CHILD welfare advocates have called for increased investment in clean water, sanitation and parenting support, warning that gaps in essential services could undermine efforts to build a healthy and productive future workforce. The call was made as Tanzania joined other African countries in commemorating the international day of the African Child. Stakeholders said access to safe water, quality healthcare, education and supportive family environments remains critical in helping children reach their full potential and contribute to national development. This year’s commemoration is being observed under Tanzania’s theme, “Child Care and Parenting: The Foundation of Strong Families and a Resilient Nation,” while the African Union theme focuses on ensuring access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene services for every child in Africa. Speaking in Dar es Salaam, Save the Children Tanzania Communications and Advocacy Manager, Ms Victoria Marijani, said parenting begins before birth and plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s future. “Good nutrition, love, protection and learning opportunities during the first five years create a strong foundation for health, education and behaviour throughout life,” she said. Ms Marijani noted that while families are children’s first teachers, support from communities, schools, health services and child protection policies is equally important. She said inadequate access to water, sanitation and hygiene services continues to affect many children, particularly in rural communities and underserved schools. ALSO READ: Samia: Children’s dreams matter “Many children still spend valuable time fetching water instead of attending lessons, while others are exposed to diseases linked to unsafe water sources,” she said. Poor sanitation facilities also remain a challenge, especially for girls who need safe and private spaces to manage menstruation while attending school. Temeke Secondary School Senior Teacher responsible for Guidance and Discipline, Mr Roman Kitali, said inadequate sanitation affects students’ wellbeing and learning. “In some schools, students remove their shirts before entering toilets because they fear carrying unpleasant odours back into classrooms and being mocked by fellow students,” he said. Meanwhile, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA) Community Development Officer, Mr Sydney Mdoe said the agency continues to prioritise water supply projects in schools and public institutions. According to RUWASA, rural water service coverage has surpassed 85 per cent, with the government targeting universal access by 2030. The Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups said it is also expanding parenting education and child health awareness programmes. The post Advocates urge more investment in children first appeared on Daily News . The post Advocates urge more investment in children appeared first on Daily News .