Early Years Matter

Advocacy Brief

Early Years Matter: In Brief
UNICEF/MOZA2024-00456/Ricardo Franco

Highlights

The first five years of a child’s life are crucial. Investing in early childhood and in the health of girls, women and mothers promotes survival, development, and well-being, which in turn fosters social cohesion, economic growth, and national prosperity.

In Mozambique, where children constitute over half the population and the average age is 17,1 such investment is essential.

These early years offer a unique window of opportunity to shape the trajectory of a child’s holistic development and build a strong foundation for their future. To achieve their full potential, children need access to health and nutrition services, protection from harm and violence, a sense of security, opportunities for early learning, and responsive caregiving—activities like talking, singing, and playing—from loving parents or caregivers.

Early Years Matter in Mozambique
Publication date
Languages
English