Sakaja to expand day care facilities across Nairobi markets

This initiative, a first where the government collaborates with private individuals to establish daycare facilities in markets, aims to support mothers who are traders by allowing them to focus on their businesses without worrying about their children's care.

Peninah Ndegwah, Managing Director of Wow Mom Kenya, praised the initiative stating: "This program has been widely welcomed in the markets. Nairobi County has provided us with space in every market, which has significantly improved trade for mothers who no longer have to worry about their children."

Mama Mwendwa, a bead weaver at Mwariro Market, shared her positive experience, recounting how she used to travel several kilometres to take my children to a private daycare before coming to the market.

"Now, I can bring my two-year-old children with me and leave them at the on-site daycare. This has made my life much easier," she said.

She added: "This is the first time a government has partnered with private investors to establish day care centres in markets. We are proud to be part of this great program."

The daycare centres are staffed by Early Childhood Development (ECD) qualified teachers who engage the children in age-appropriate programs, preparing them for formal education at age five.

Currently, the program operates in Mwariro and Gikomba markets, serving over 70 children of market traders. Governor Sakaja has announced plans to expand the program to other markets, including Kahawa West, Mutuini, and Kangundo, as the county continues to develop and open new markets.