WOLREC/ WUSC strive to improve childcare services in Malawi

The World University Service of Canada (WUSC) in partnership with Women’s Legal Resources Centre (WOLREC) organized a two-day symposium in Blantyre to discuss how a well-organized childcare system can better serve children, empower women and contribute to national development.

The event, under the theme ‘Advancing Childcare as a Strategic Investment for Malawi’s Future’ sparked strong commitments that will help Malawi move away from scattered, project-based childcare initiatives to a coordinated childcare system supported by both public and private sectors.

The symposium brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Coalition on Violence Against Women COVAW from Kenya, the Government of Canada, local government officials, as well as private sector partners from Malawi.

Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, Mary Navicha graced the occasion and in her keynote address, she called for joint efforts from government, development partners, civil society and the private sector to strengthen Malawi’s childcare system.

She emphasized the need for Malawi to take childcare as a development priority.

“Quality and affordable childcare is not only good for children, but it is key to economic growth. When women have access to reliable childcare, they can fully participate in the workforce, create income for their families and contribute to the country’s development,’’ she said.

The symposium was held under the Action for Paid Childcare Sector Transformation (ACT) project implemented by WUSC and WOLREC with funding from Global Affairs Canada.