The Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, Hon. Dorothy Gwajima, has officially launched a specialized training program for champion journalists, community radio stations, and Press Club coordinators. This training aims to enhance awareness and advocacy for the National Integrated Early Childhood Development Program (PJT-MMMAM) through the Mtoto Kwanza Phase II Project.

This three-year project commenced in October 2024 and is set to conclude in September 2027. The training has been organized by Children in Crossfire (CiC) in collaboration with other implementing partners, including the Union of Tanzania Press Clubs (UTPC) and TECDEN.

During the launch event, representatives from the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI) attended to further support the project's implementation at the community level.

In her opening speech, Minister Gwajima emphasized the critical role of journalists, particularly those in community radio stations, in educating the public about Early Childhood Development (ECD). She urged them to disseminate information that empowers communities to make informed decisions, including advocating for improved access to ECD services.

The Minister also commended UTPC for its dedication to promoting community development through informative reporting on community radio and other media platforms.

Furthermore, she highlighted key priorities for enhancing the well-being of Tanzanian children, including:

• Establishing daycare centers to support quality childcare and ensure children receive proper nutrition, thereby reducing stunting and fostering healthy growth from birth to eight years old.
• Promoting access to quality healthcare services for children to improve their overall well-being.
• Eliminating child abuse and strengthening protective measures against all forms of violence.

Additionally, Minister Gwajima urged journalists to uphold ethical reporting standards, particularly by protecting children’s privacy and refraining from displaying their faces in media coverage.

Through the Mtoto Kwanza Phase II Project, the government and its partners anticipate increased awareness and deliberate actions by both communities and the government to ensure children grow up in environments that foster their holistic development.