Children of Hope Organization Expands Access to Early Childhood Education
COHO's commendable efforts have resulted in the construction of two Community-Based Care Centres (CBCCs), greatly benefiting families in remote villages.
Mulanje, Malawi - The Children of Hope Organisation (COHO) has taken significant strides in improving access to early childhood education in Senior Chief Chikumbu's region in Mulanje, writes Moses Thole.
COHO's commendable efforts have resulted in the construction of two Community-Based Care Centres (CBCCs), greatly benefiting families in remote villages.
Nduzayani Namate, a parent from Manyangala village, expressed her joy over the new CBCC closer to her home, saying, "The CBCC that COHO constructed in my area is such a relief to us and has already started realising positive fruits as many children are now going to the centre to interact with their friends and develop intellectually."
COHO's initiatives are funded by the Fire Light Foundation, which focuses on critical areas such as early learning opportunities, responsive caregiving, and nutrition.
Villagers in Mulanje's TA Chikumbu area have praised the CBCCs, noting that many children can now access early childhood development services nearby.
Tamala Mhango, another resident, said, "COHO has responded to our calls for a Community-Based Care centre in Senior Chief Chikumbu’s area. Many children were just staying at home as most parents could not afford to pay fees at a private nursery school and had problems with the distance to the nearest public school."
COHO Project Officer Abraham Andiseni highlighted the need for proper security for children under six and called for government intervention through the social welfare office. He also stressed the importance of community involvement in the success of the CBCCs.
COHO's ambitious project aims to construct five more community-based care centres, with two already completed and three in progress.
They remain committed to creating a conducive environment for children's growth and development through these centres.
In addition to their early childhood education services, COHO is implementing a women's and youth empowerment project, distributing piglets to households as part of a pass-on program.
Senior Chief Chikumbu commended COHO for its impactful projects in the region.
Established in 2021, COHO primarily serves the catchment area of Senior Chief Chikumbu in Mulanje district, making strides towards accessible early childhood education and community development.