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In a powerful and inspiring launch, a Mary Jan and Paul Bancroft’s funded Nyenyezi Plus Project took a centre stage in Sinda District on October 3, 2024, signaling a bold step toward transforming the future of Zambia’s children. The event, led by the project’s lead implementing partners, CARE Zambia and Children Sentinel Trust Zambia (CSTZ), was attended by other key stakeholders including, government, traditional leaders, and education stakeholders. This marked the beginning of a far-reaching initiative that promises to revolutionize early childhood education (ECE) and development across the nation.
Mr. David Tembo, Sinda District Commissioner, in his opening remarks, underscored the urgency and life-changing potential of the project. “This is not just a program; it is a lifeline for our children. It will bring back those who have been left behind, giving them the opportunity to reclaim their education and, with it, their future.” His words captured the sentiment of a community that is ready to embrace this monumental effort.
At the heart of this five-year, $4.299 million initiative is a bold ambition: to equip over 90,000 children and their parents across 56 communities in Chipangali and Sinda Districts of Eastern Province as well as Choma, and Monze Districts of Southern Province with critical literacy, numeracy, and socio-emotional skills. As Project Manager Jacqueline Chalapuka outlined, the Nyenyezi Plus Project is much more than an education program, it is a comprehensive intervention that will shape the lives of Zambia’s next generation. From Early Childhood Development (ECD), Early Childhood Education (ECE), Mobile Libraries to Accelerated Learning for adolescents and young parents, the project is designed to create lasting change, laying a foundation for lifelong learning and development.
Speaking on behalf of CARE Zambia Country Director, Chikwe Mbweeda, CARE Zambia Program Manager for Education and Empowerment, Brian Phiri described the project as a critical investment in the future of Zambia. “Early childhood experiences shape the future of our children, influencing everything from their educational attainment to their health and aspirations. The Nyenyezi Plus Project is rooted in evidence that every kwacha invested in early education is a kwacha invested in the future prosperity of our nation. More secure families, happier children, and stronger communities will emerge from this initiative.”
The project’s focus on parents is equally profound. “A parent’s literacy is the single greatest determinant of a child’s academic success,” Brian Phiri noted. Through Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), Nyenyezi Plus will empower parents to actively support their children’s education, ensuring that no child is left behind due to financial barriers.
The launch event made it clear that Nyenyezi Plus is not just responding to educational needs but is deeply aligned with Zambia’s broader development goals. The project resonates with the national agenda to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4-Quality Education. It also reflects Zambia’s commitment to the 8th National Development Plan, which prioritizes education as a key pillar for national development.
And speaking on behalf of the Provincial Education Officer, Mr. Brainly Malambo, the Senior Education Standards Officer, Mr. Genesis Mwanza highlighted the stark realities facing early childhood education in the Eastern Province, where 1,365 centers struggle to serve over 87,000 children, many of whom lack proper infrastructure and qualified teachers.
The Nyenyezi Plus Project is poised to directly tackle these challenges by enhancing teacher capacity, improving learning environments, and providing crucial resources such as mobile libraries. The aim is to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has access to the quality education they deserve.
In his speech, the Eastern Province Assistant Secretary, Mr. Clement Chilembo, representing the Acting Permanent Secretary, Mr. Lewis Mwape praised the project’s alignment with Zambia’s 8NDP and the government’s unwavering focus on foundational learning. “Our President, H.E. Hakainde Hichilema is a champion of foundational learning in Africa, and we are committed to ensuring that every Zambian child starts their journey with the best possible foundation. Nyenyezi Plus is a testament to this commitment, and we are proud to stand with CARE Zambia and CSTZ as they lead the way in transforming education.”
Traditional leaders were equally enthusiastic, with Chieftainess Kawaza declaring, “We welcome this project with open arms. It is not just for today; it is for the future of our children and the generations to come. Our children will no longer be left behind.”
As the event concluded, it became clear that the Nyenyezi Plus Project is more than just a response to Zambia’s educational challenges, it is a catalyst for nationwide transformation. By addressing the root causes of educational inequality, empowering parents, and fostering a culture of lifelong learning, Nyenyezi Plus is set to change the trajectory of thousands of children and families.
With the project now underway, CARE Zambia, CSTZ and other partners have ignited a spark that will fuel progress for years to come. The hope, determination, and collaboration displayed at the launch send a resounding message: Zambia’s children are its greatest asset, and through Nyenyezi Plus, their future is brighter than ever before.