ACWECA: SCORE ECD III -Improves Child Development,Transforming Family Wellbeing

ACWECA Communication

Reflecting on the Strengthening Capacity of Religious Women in Early Childhood Development (SCORED-ED) programme’s impact from 2021 to 2024, ACWECA Regional Coordinator for SCORE ECD, Sr. Teresa Banda has expressed that most children have achieved age-appropriate developmental milestones, arguing that the progress is due to caregivers adopting improved practices that address children’s physical, emotional, cognitive, intellectual and social needs over the past three years.

She observed that these efforts have significantly reduced malnutrition, ensuring children develop healthier and stronger.

“One of the programme’s key highlights has been the increased involvement of male caregivers, a development that has strengthened family bonds and improved decision-making in households and communities,” she said.

Sr. Banda emphasized that the Sister Master Trainers (SMTs) have become influential agents of change. She referred to an exchange visit by a team from Malawi to Lesotho, as well as Uganda and Kenya, where SMTs shared their expertise and impactful experiences. This underscored the global relevance of their work.

“The transition to SCORE ECD IV, which will focus on children aged 0 – 5, marks a renewed commitment to sustaining these achievements.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Catholic Relief Service (CRS) and the Hilton foundation for their support. Their assistance enables us, along with the implementing countries – Kenya, Malawi, Ghana and Zambia, to build on our progress and create even greater opportunities for children, caregivers and communities through nurturing care,” stated Sr. Banda.

She promised that SCORE ECD IV will further empower caregivers, nurture holistic child development and build healthier, resilient families and communities.