THE ongoing water crisis in eThekwini is placing immense strain on early childhood development (ECD) centres,  particularly in underserved communities.

The Domino Foundation knows this all too well as they partner with 80 ECD centres through their ECD programme.

Also read: Plan to replace water meters older than 15 years across eThekwini

The centres serve nearly 4000 children and have witnessed first hand the difficulties posed by water shortages. To address the issue, the foundation has launched an initiative to install JoJo water tanks at ECD centres, providing a reliable back-up water source. It is calling on businesses, organisations, and individuals to support this critical initiative

Thembelihle Mkhwanazi, who leads the programme, stressed the importance of clean and sanitary environments in early childhood education.

“With so many little ones to care for, an interruption in water supply creates a nightmare for staff who need to prepare meals, maintain hygiene, and ensure a safe learning space,” Mkhwanazi said.

“We hope to start with one tank at a time until all centres have access to clean water,” she said.

“The United Nations’ World Water Day on March 22 served as a stark reminder that 2.2 billion people worldwide lack access to safe water. Many of them live right here in eThekwini, where the crisis is most acutely felt by those running township ECD centres. These facilities cater to young children, yet staff often struggle to meet their daily needs due to unreliable water supply,” added Mkhwanazi.

Those interested in contributing can reach out via ecd@domino.org.za.

A reliable water supply is essential for every child’s health, safety, and education — without it, the future of thousands of young learners remains uncertain.

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