Malawi Launches Super Dad Initiative

Government and UNICEF have joined the global campaign to promote positive parenting for early childhood development ECD by launching a super Dads initiative.

The initiative aims at recognizing the role of fathers in ECD.

Speaking during the launch in Lilongwe Minister of Gender, children, disability and social welfare Cecilia Chazama urged the private sector and civil society to give parents and care givers of babies the time, resources and information they need to give children the best start in life.

Chazama said ECD is a top government priority in all relevant sectors which is why there is need to teach and sensitise the male community to get involved for the first 1000 critical days throughout the pregnancy to the early childhood years.

She said the support results in good brain function.

The minister therefore encouraged guardians and caregivers of children without fathers around to continue nurturing and protecting the children to fill the void that they might experience without a dad.

UNICEF representative in Malawi explained that the initiative would encourage farmers to inspire their children and grow up in an environment full of love and care from both parents.

He said they will work with government, development partners and the local community systems such as traditional leaders and community based organizations to ensure that the initiative is successfully implemented and bears fruits.