Wiawso: The Anglican Diocesan Development and Relief Organization (ADDRO), a faith-based non-governmental organization, has broadened its Early Childhood Development Programme to include 12 new communities in the Wiawso Municipality, located in the Western North Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, the initiative, named 'Moments That Matter (MTM)', was rolled out to these additional areas following a successful pilot in nine communities in 2023. The programme is funded by the Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD), USA, and aims to foster responsive care and early learning activities for caregivers and their children aged zero to three years.
MTM focuses on four crucial components of child development: physical, social and emotional, cognitive, and communication. Additionally, the programme seeks to economically empower caregivers through its Savings with Education (SwE) and skills training, enabling them to meet the needs of their children and others in the community, ultimately helping children reach their full potential.
Mr. Michael Arthur, ADDRO Western North Regional Project Officer, explained in an interview with the Ghana News Agency that the Wiawso office has trained 24 volunteers from the 12 communities to serve as Early Childhood Development Promoters. These volunteers are tasked with fostering nurturing care through monthly home visits and organizing caregivers' support and learning group meetings.
The ADDRO Regional Project Officer urged major stakeholders in the beneficiary communities to engage in effective collaboration to achieve the project's goals. Mr. Arthur also encouraged caregivers to participate actively in the MTM programme, which aims to enhance their livelihoods while promoting positive parenting and stimulating interactive activities with their children for better future development.
Mr. Clement Benteh, an Early Childhood Development Committee Member and Assembly Member for the Ahokwa Electoral Area, praised the programme on behalf of the participants. He highlighted that the project has provided valuable insights into nurturing and educating children to become successful individuals. He expressed appreciation for ADDRO and its partners for their ongoing support, particularly in rural communities, and committed to ensuring the project's success in his electoral area.
