In the semi-arid region of Eastern Kenya, farming is the primary source of livelihood for most families. Women dedicate long hours to fieldwork, often accompanied by their young children under the intense heat of the sun. As a result, many children miss out on early childhood education, leaving them unprepared for the transition to primary school.

To address this, 20 community groups, together with WEMIHS, have taken the initiative to build early childhood development (ECD) centers called Structures of Hope, which started as informal gatherings under trees.

Why Structures of Hope

In such areas ECD centers serve as the only accessible and suitable safe space structures where care givers and their young children can gain access to these services. Although much has been done to improve access and quality of early learning programs in ECD facilities, there is a long way to go in the enhancement of service delivery. Some of the prominent challenges facing ECD facilities include; insufficient funding, lack of sufficiently qualified teachers, dilapidated or non-existent structures for learning, lack of food and water, and poor toilet amenities.

The overwhelming demand for quality ECD services if not urgently addressed will limit vulnerable children from access to basic rights and opportunities that support potential for full development and well being.

Call for Support/Partnership

While the program has already reached 4,600 children from vulnerable households, many more still need support. Despite the community’s commitment, their reliance on farming has been strained by recurring droughts, deepening poverty and hunger. Without additional funding, there is a risk that the progress made so far could be lost, and the dream of expanding these vital services could fade.

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