By Janet Labak
The African Youth Action Network (AYAN) proudly participated in the African Conference on Childcare, held from 18th to 20th June 2025, at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Themed “Building Partnerships for Accelerating Action Towards Quality and Inclusive Childcare in Africa,” the landmark event brought together 300 participants from 39 African countries, including 29 African Ministers, to strengthen continental efforts toward quality early childhood care and education.
Why Childcare in Africa Matters Now More Than Ever
Africa is home to the world’s youngest population—with over 650 million children in 2021, and a projection of 1 billion by 2055. Despite this promising demographic dividend, millions of African children still lack access to quality childcare systems, that are inclusive, nurturing, and responsive to their needs.
This conference served as a clarion call to policymakers, civil society, and international development partners to prioritize and invest in Early Childhood Development (ECD), aligned with the aspirations of Agenda 2063, Agenda 2040, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Our children are our future.” – Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Uganda
AYAN’s Role: Raising Voices, Sharing Solutions
AYAN was at the forefront of advocacy during the three-day event, highlighting its impactful Pathprenuer Project—an initiative funded by the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, currently implemented in Kyaka II, Kiryandongo, and Rhino Camp refugee settlements in Uganda.
Through this project, AYAN is pioneering community-led childcare models that support young parents, especially in vulnerable refugee communities. These models offer vocational training, entrepreneurship mentoring, and access to safe childcare spaces, empowering young people to thrive while ensuring their children grow up in safe, stimulating environments.
AYAN’s presence at the conference amplified the importance of youth-led innovation, domestic resource mobilization, and inclusive partnerships in transforming Africa’s childcare landscape.
Key Outcomes from the Conference
- Renewed political and financial commitment from African states to prioritize childcare.
- Call for documentation and scaling of best practices across the continent.
- Strengthened collaboration among governments, CSOs, private sector, and development partners.
- Emphasis on investing in integrated childcare systems rooted in local realities.
Voices from the Summit
“Africa’s youngest citizens deserve more than survival—they deserve a foundation to thrive. Quality childcare is not a luxury, it’s a necessity for sustainable development.” – Adanech Abiebie, Mayor of Addis Ababa
The Mayor emphasized that as Africa’s child population grows, so must its commitment to building resilient, affordable, and inclusive childcare systems.
What’s Next for AYAN?
AYAN is committed to continuing its advocacy for youth-led, community-rooted childcare solutions. The conference not only strengthened our partnerships, but also affirmed our belief that every child deserves a strong start, regardless of where they are born.
With renewed inspiration and continental momentum, we call upon governments, donors, private sector actors, and civil society organizations to partner with us in scaling proven models and driving real change.
Join the Movement
Are you passionate about transforming childcare systems in Africa? Partner with AYAN. Support our work. Spread the word.
📬 Contact us at: +256758307115
🌐 Website: www.ayanafrica.org
📱 Follow us on social media: @AYANAfrica (Twitter/X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn)
#ChildcareInAfrica #EarlyChildhoodDevelopment #AYAN #AfricanUnion #YouthLedChange #RefugeeSupport #Agenda2063 #SDGs #InclusiveChildcare #ECDAfrica