Govt reaffirms commitment to child welfare

DODOMA: THE government is taking action to improve the welfare of vulnerable children by implementing and strengthening programmes that offer proper care and support.

Speaking during the inauguration of the National Committee of Kikombo Children’s Home in Dodoma last week, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Dr John Jingu, stated that the initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure vulnerable children receive proper care comparable to those raised in family settings.

“We all know that the best place to raise a child is within a family but due to challenges, some children find themselves unable to grow up in family settings. This is where the nation steps in to ensure they are provided with the necessary care, including preparing them to face life’s challenges so that, when they reach maturity, they can live independently,” Dr Jingu said.

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He tasked the 12-member committee, chaired by VETA Principal Deodatus Orotha, to develop strategies that will add value to Kikombo and transform it into a model for other children’s homes nationwide.

“You need to provide advice and ideas that will help us improve these centres so they can serve as models for other childcare institutions across the country. The ministry stands ready to fully support you in discharging your responsibilities,” he added.

Committee member and Dodoma Regional Social Welfare Officer, Ms Josephine Mwaipopo, noted that Kikombo has already become a role model for childcare centres, meeting essential standards that even private facilities can emulate.

She stressed the committee’s responsibility to ensure the home continues to improve.

Another member, Mr Alfred Magala from Abbot Fund, reaffirmed stakeholders’ commitment to providing the necessary support to promote child welfare and strengthen community well-being.

The committee, which will serve a three-year term, is expected to guide the transformation of Kikombo into a national model for children’s homes.