ActionAid gives CBCCs K10.5m

ActionAid Malawi has disbursed K10.5 million to 30 community-based childcare centres (CBCCs) in Rumphi District.

Speaking when he presented the cheques on Tuesday, ActionAid general assembly member Yewo Mkandawire said the international non-governmental organisation envisages the revolving funds helping to sustain the CBCCs and motivate caregivers who work for no pay.

“Among other uses, the funds could help support caregivers with honoraria, provide nutritious meals to children as well as maintenance of CBCCs, payment of utility bills and security,” he said.

Mkandawire said the 30 childcare centres currently receive capacity building support from government and ActionAid’s Local Rights Programme’s Comprehensive Early Childhood Development (ECD) Project.

The intervention started in 2011 with funding from tennis star Roger Federer’s foundation.

Paramount Chief Chikulamayembe asked recipients to use money as intended.

“Corruption has become part and parcel of life these days. It has reached a despicable high in the country, so my plea is that the funds should not be used for personal gains,” he said.

Rumphi District Council director of planning and development Frank Mkandawire thanked ActionAid for buoying government’s agenda to improve early childhood care and development.

The push to give children a solid start in life is part of the Malawi Growth and Development Strategy (MGDS III) President Peter Mutharika launched on Tuesday.

Rumphi is home to 12 model CBCCs and 45 satellite CBCCs.