Affordable, reliable, and sustainable childcare services took centre stage in Isiolo as stakeholders explored new partnerships to strengthen the care economy and expand support for working families across Northern Kenya. The discussions brought together the National Gender and Equality Commission's (NGEC) Isiolo Regional Office and Open Capital Advisors (OCA) to identify collaborative approaches for establishing sustainable childcare models in Isiolo and Samburu counties.
The engagement examined opportunities for collaboration among the Commission, county governments, development partners, and local communities to develop childcare systems that respond to local needs while supporting longterm social and economic development.
Recognising childcare as a critical pillar of the care economy, participants highlighted its role in reducing the burden of unpaid care work, increasing women's participation in the labour force, promoting early childhood development, and strengthening family well-being. They noted that investing in quality childcare is essential to advancing gender equality, economic inclusion, and resilient communities. These priorities are increasingly reflected in national discussions on strengthening Kenya's care economy and expanding access to quality childcare services.
The discussions emphasised that sustainable childcare models should be locally driven and integrated within existing community and county government structures to ensure ownership, continuity, and lasting impact. Strengthened partnerships across public institutions, development partners, and communities were identified as critical to expanding access to quality childcare services, particularly in underserved and pastoralist areas.
