In a bold step aligned with Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii’s Nguzo Kumi Agenda, Uasin Gishu County is ramping up efforts to improve child welfare and nutrition in Eldoret.
With the focus squarely on Nguzo 2: Health and Well-being, the County Department of Health Services is leading a collaborative initiative to support early childhood development, especially for families in urban informal settlements.
This initiative directly impacts many Eldoret residents, especially in areas like Langas, Kipkaren, and Huruma, where working mothers—affectionately known as mamapreneurs—face the daily challenge of balancing income-generating activities and childcare.
A United Front for Better Childcare in Eldoret
On Thursday, a multi-sectoral childcare meeting brought together stakeholders from across Uasin Gishu’s departments.
The aim? To find sustainable ways to improve access to affordable, quality childcare in low-income areas.Dr. Evans Kiprotich, the Director of Health Services, emphasized the urgency of this initiative.
He raised concerns about young children in Eldoret being left unattended while caregivers work to provide for their families.
“We must work closely with mamapreneurs in urban slums to ensure that childcare is both affordable and of high quality,” said Dr. Kiprotich.
Eye-Opening Data on Child Nutrition
The meeting also revealed alarming child nutrition statistics from across the county:139 children showed signs of moderate to severe stunting.124 children were moderately to severely underweight.
124 cases of moderate to severe wasting were reported—an indicator of acute malnutrition.503 children had incomplete or missing immunization data.
These numbers underscore the critical need for targeted interventions to support early childhood health and nutrition.
Empowering Women, Protecting Children
A key highlight of this initiative is the partnership with Kidogo, a social enterprise dedicated to improving early childhood care in low-income communities.
Through its innovative ‘Kidogo Hubs’, the organization empowers local women to run safe, nurturing, and affordable childcare centers.
Benefits of Kidogo Hubs:Provide nutritious meals and safe learning environments for young children.
Support local women with business skills and childcare training.Create community-based solutions tailored to the realities of Eldoret’s urban settlements.
Aligning with the Nguzo Kumi Agenda
This program supports not only Nguzo 2: Health and Well-being, but also Nguzo 5: Education and Innovation, by ensuring children in Eldoret get a strong foundation for future learning and development.
Ongoing Commitments from the County Government:Improve data collection on child health.Train more community health promoters.Enhance access to immunization and child nutrition programs.Expand support to mothers in underserved communities.
Moving Forward for Eldoret’s Future
This initiative shows the County Government’s clear commitment to building a healthier, smarter generation in Eldoret.
As more stakeholders join hands, the future looks brighter for every child—especially those in need of the most support.Whether you live near Zion Mall, Kapsoya, or Kimumu, these changes are happening right in your backyard—and they’re paving the way for a more caring, healthier Uasin Gishu.
