Tengeru Village Development Centre provides free Early Childhood Development and School Readiness programs. According to UNICEF – more than 3.2 million Tanzanian children aged 7-17yrs are not in school with 1.2million never attending school at all. This is for many complex reasons relating to multi-dimensional poverty. When children get the right start in Early Childhood, the likelihood of their success at school and continuing with their education is significantly increased.

We provide weekday meals (breakfast, lunch and snacks!) for 80 vulnerable children aged 3-6yrs. The program provides vital nutrition for the children – for many, the only meals they would get are provided by the centre – as well as important developmental supports. Hunger, especially during critical periods of brain development, can significantly impair cognitive and emotional development. Inadequate nutrition, particularly the lack of essential nutrients like iron, protein, and vitamins, can lead to delayed development, reduced cognitive function, and increased risk of mental health issues. 

Play is essential in early childhood. It significantly contributes to cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development. Through play, children explore their environment, develop problem-solving skills, build social skills, and learn to regulate their emotions. Something we don't often talk about is that Corporal Punishment is standard practice in most schools in Tanzania (and in homes) but it is something we do not allow at Tengeru, helping educate and foster positive change with the families and communities we support.