International Women’s Day (March 8) celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women worldwide. It is both a reflection on progress and a call to action to further empower women and girls. The stories below highlight the vital role of mothers and caregivers in early childhood development, shaping the foundation for a brighter future. They were prepared in collaboration with the Tanzania Early Childhood Education and Care (TECEC) Childcare Learning & Play Hub.
Mama Caren with her daughter Rispa. Photo courtesy of TECEC.
The Story of Mama Caren
March 7, 2025 – Motherhood is a unique experience—warm, bright, and sometimes overwhelming. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we share stories of women like Mama Caren —mothers and providers—who take care of their children while navigating numerous challenges.
Mama Caren has two wonderful daughters—Caren, 8, and Rispa, 4. “Life with them is always busy. Caren is full of clever questions, and Rispa’s playfulness always makes me smile,” said Mama Caren. “Every day brings something new and special. They are my everything.” Like many single mothers, Mama Caren juggles multiple roles—entrepreneur, caregiver, and educator. She wakes up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her children before school and then rushes to the market for business materials. Every minute counts when you are striving to build a better life for your children. Her story reflects the daily realities of countless mothers in rural communities who navigate similar challenges with resilience and determination. Access to quality early childhood education, health care, and safe play spaces is not just a personal struggle—it is a systemic issue affecting millions of families.
For Mama Caren, the Tanzania Early Childhood Education and Care (TECEC) Childcare Learning & Play Hub has been transformative for her family. “It’s such a big help,” she said. “It’s more than just a childcare center; it’s a model of what communal support for working mothers should look like. It’s like a family.”
Through the parenting sessions and home visits offered by the childcare learning and play hub, she has gained valuable skills in child development, nutrition, and play engagement. Her daughter Rispa thrives in the program, where Mama Caren knows she is safe and well cared for while she works.
The TECEC hub demonstrates how investing in early childhood development (ECD) also means investing in women’s economic empowerment. When mothers have access to quality childcare and parenting support, they can better participate in the workforce while ensuring their children receive the early education they need.
This International Women’s Day, TECEC and other ECD partners, call for greater investment in early childhood services that uplift both children and their caregivers. Mama Caren’s story is a testament to how quality early childhood services can transform families’ lives—but it is also a call to action. We need more initiatives like the TECEC hub, policies that recognize women’s dual roles as caregivers and economic contributors, and funding to scale solutions that work to drive systemic change.
“Being a mama is the most beautiful, chaotic mix I’ve ever known. But when I see my children’s smiles at the end of the day, I know it’s all worth it. This love I feel for them is the greatest love I’ve ever known, and I wouldn’t change it for anything,” Mama Caren said. “What I do wish to change is the system, so that every mother has the support she needs to give her children the best possible start in life.”
Let us honor mothers like Mama Caren not just with admiration, but with action. Advocate for policies and programs that ensure no mother—or child—is left behind. Together, we can turn resilience into opportunity and create lasting change.
The Story of an Aunt and Caregiver
Junior with his aunt Grace Paul. Photo courtesy of TECEC.
Every day, I help shape the life of a three-year-old nephew,Junior. I guide him, teach him, and watch him blossom—a journey full of joy, sprinkled with challenges, and rich with constant learning. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s a moment to reflect on the vital role women like me play in nurturing children. Junior has been in my care since he was a baby; he’s the center of my world. One minute, we’re singing songs and playing games; the next, we’re tackling big life lessons like sharing or making friends. Through it all, I’m his steady support, ensuring he feels safe, loved, and ready to face the world.
As his aunt and caregiver, I know my role goes beyond basic care—I nurture his mind, heart, and spirit. From sunrise to bedtime, I comfort him when he’s sad, cheer his successes, and guide him through challenges. This loving care isn’t just personal; it’s foundational to his emotional and social growth. Yet, this work—done by millions of women globally—often goes unrecognized. We need advocacy to spotlight its value and secure the support caregivers deserve.
Being a caregiver comes with huge responsibilities, and challenges. Like many caregivers, one of my biggest struggles is lack of resources. While we make use of what we have, access to more learning materials would enhance Junior’s development. Thankfully, the Tanzania Early Childhood Education and Care (TECEC) has been supporting us by teaching us how to make local learning and playing materials, making quality early childhood education more accessible. But this is just a start—governments and organizations must invest more in these solutions to reach every caregiver and child.
The TECEC childcare learning hub has transformed my approach to caregiving. Through their workshops, I’ve gained invaluable knowledge about child development and effective teaching methods. This support empowers me to give Junior better care and learning opportunities. Still, I can’t help but advocate for more: every caregiver should have access to such resources. When organizations like TECEC step in with practical tools and guidance, they strengthen our ability to nurture children effectively. A supportive community doesn’t just boost our confidence—it amplifies our impact on young minds.
This International Women’s Day, let’s honor the countless women caregivers who, like me, pour their hearts into raising the next generation. We are the backbone of early childhood development, yet too often, we lack the recognition and resources to thrive. Policymakers, communities, and organizations must prioritize funding, training, and support for caregivers. With the right backing, we can ensure every child, like Junior, reaches their full potential. Our work is essential; it’s time the world invests in us.