New step for ECD in Burundi: Training manual and monitoring tools validated
A workshop was held to validate a new training manual for ECD trainers, along with integrated monitoring tools; A significant step towards a holistic approach to child well-being in Burundi.
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Burundi is moving forward in its efforts to strengthen early childhood development (ECD) and promote positive parenting. On 30 April 2025, the Ministry of Public Health and the Fight against AIDS, through the Integrated National Programme for Food and Nutrition (PRONIANUT), in collaboration with UNICEF and other sectoral ministries, and with funding from the Dutch government, validated a training manual for trainers, along with integrated monitoring tools. This initiative aims to build capacity at all levels and harmonize community practices, ensuring comprehensive support for children and their families nationwide.
This workshop followed a technical pre-validation workshop held on 29–30 January 2025 in Muramvya, where participants’ recommendations were incorporated into the final document.
“This manual supports the implementation of the 2022–2027 National ECD Strategy and its Operational Plan (2024–2027), as well as the ECD model pilot in Kayanza district, for which an impact assessment will guide scaling up,” emphasized Christine Kaligirwa, UNICEF Nutrition Section Chief, in her opening remarks.
“In Burundi, ECD interventions do exist, but they remain fragmented and in need of better coordination. This new framework lays the groundwork for coherent, multisectoral, and sustainable action,” noted Dr Fidèle Nkezabahizi, Director of PRONIANUT. He emphasized the importance of integrated tools in providing a holistic response to the needs of children aged 0–8.
The importance of investing in children's early years is well recognized. Scientific research has confirmed that the period from conception to age eight is vital for a child’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development.
The newly validated training manual and monitoring tools aim to guide frontline workers by establishing a consistent framework for Early Childhood Development (ECD) practices. The goal is to professionalize service delivery, provide harmonized guidance, and promote an integrated approach that spans health, nutrition, early learning, child protection, hygiene and sanitation, pre-primary education, and positive parenting. This was highlighted in the presentation by the international Early Childhood Development (ECD) consultant.
During the validation workshop, stakeholders reviewed the final version of the manual and monitoring tools, provided final feedback, and officially endorsed the documents. Particular emphasis was placed on integrating ECD into Essential Family Practices (EFP) communication tools to ensure consistency in messaging at the community level.
While the validation of the training manual marks a significant milestone in advancing integrated ECD in Burundi, further refinement of the monitoring tools is still required. PRONIANUT and UNICEF have been tasked with coordinating bilateral working sessions with multisectoral teams to finalize these tools. This process is expected to be completed by 10 May 2025.
Through this collaborative, multisectoral process, Burundi is reaffirming its commitment to providing every child with the best possible start in life and laying a strong foundation for their future success.
“For every child, the best start in life, for a resilient and sustainable human capital.”
