Tanga councils get childcare deadline

TANGA: DISTRICT and municipal councils in Tanga Region have until September 30 this year, to identify unused government buildings that can be converted into childcare centres as part of efforts to strengthen early childhood care, development and learning.

The directive formed part of resolutions adopted during a meeting of the National Programme for Early Childhood Care, Development and Learning held in Tanga City.

Tanga Regional Coordinator of the programme and Regional Social Welfare Officer, Mr Mmasa Malugu, said each council had already been directed to establish at least two model childcare centres by renovating suitable government buildings.

He expressed concern over the slow pace of implementation, saying only Tanga City Council had established a model centre with support from the United Help for Tanzania Children (UHTC).

“There is no seriousness. So far, no council has established these centres except Tanga City,” Mr Malugu said.