Disability in Tanzania is often understood through cultural and religious interpretations, where in some communities it is perceived as a curse or a form of punishment from God, or associated with misfortune. Such beliefs continue to contribute to the marginalisation of children with disabilities and their families, emphasising the urgent need for awareness and inclusive interventions.
In response to these challenges, the Aga Khan University's Institute for Human Development in partnership with the Institute for Educational Development, East Africa, has rolled out a training on Disability-Inclusive Early Childhood Development.
The training, which was conducted in Arusha from March 23-27, 2026, brought together 28 multi-sectoral stakeholders, including representatives from non-governmental and faith-based organisations, to deliberate on emerging issues in Disability-Inclusive Early Childhood Development. The training aims to equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to support and promote inclusive early childhood development (ECD) for children with disabilities, their families and the workforce serving them.
Disability-inclusive ECD focuses on ensuring that children aged 0–8 years are identified early and can access essential services, including healthcare, nutrition, stimulation, protection, and quality pre-primary and primary education. The seminar covered key thematic areas such as disability identification, inclusive early childhood education, wellbeing and support systems, as well as strategies for working with parents and caregivers of children with disabilities.
In his opening remarks, Arusha Regional Community Development Officer, Denis Mgiye emphasised the Tanzanian government's continued commitment to inclusion. He noted that the government, in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Aga Khan University, is providing training in nutrition, caregiving, and early childhood development to ensure that all children, regardless of ability, are included in development programmes.
Participants highlighted the practical value of the training in strengthening programme design and service delivery. “This seminar has been instrumental in equipping me with the skills needed when developing programmes related to ECD," said Naike Chawachi, Senior Manager, ECD, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. “As an organisation that focuses on children's welfare, this training enables us to better incorporate all essential components of disability-inclusive early childhood development."
The training also created space for policy dialogue and knowledge sharing. Guest speaker Ms. Chihiyo Nahumu, a Community Development Officer from Meru district, provided an overview of existing policies and institutional frameworks in Tanzania that support children with disabilities. She emphasised the importance of strengthening implementation and coordination to better address gaps in service delivery.
This training is part of a continuing series, delivered by the Aga Khan University, and set to host its final session in April. The upcoming training will focus on gender transformative approaches in early childhood development, with participants expected to deepen their understanding of gender-responsive and inclusive practices in ECD settings.
