Gender mainstreaming in Early Childhood Development (ECD) in Tanzania is gaining policy attention, yet implementation remains uneven. While strong frameworks exist, gaps persist at community and service-delivery levels, limiting the full realization of gender-responsive ECD.
To help close these gaps, the Aga Khan University’s Institute for Human Development, in collaboration with the Institute for Educational Development, East Africa (IED, EA), convened a three-day seminar in Arusha, Tanzania on Gender Transformative Strategies for Early Childhood Development.
The seminar brought together 28 multi-sectoral stakeholders from community-based organizations in Arusha and its surroundings committed to strengthening the integration of gender in ECD policy and practice.
Participants explored the intersection between gender and early childhood development, examining how gender norms shape children’s growth and development. The training equipped them with practical knowledge and skills to promote inclusive and gender-responsive approaches in both early childhood settings and the workplace.
The course covered three key modules: gender and social identity in ECD; gender and ECD from a community perspective; and gender mainstreaming in ECD policies and programmes.
Reflecting on the training, Dr Fortidas Bakuza, Interim Associate Dean Research and Partnerships at IED, EA, emphasized the need for both systemic change and informed leadership. “Through this series, we have embraced a more holistic approach to advocating for gender transformation and inclusion. Achieving meaningful impact requires not only transformative policies and plans, but also well-informed individuals to drive their implementation,” he said.
Participants also highlighted the importance of evolving social norms. “We must move with the changing realities of life. Children today are growing up in an era shaped by technology and globalization. While culture and traditions are important, those that limit fathers’ involvement in raising children need to be reconsidered,” noted participant Odo Ndonde.
The Aga Khan University continues to call on stakeholders to advance Sustainable Development Goal 5 on Gender Equality by ensuring that gender is systematically integrated into the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of policies and programmes, laying a strong foundation for sustainable and inclusive development.
