From June 18 to 20, 2025, FAWE joined childcare and education stakeholders in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for the Africa Conference on Childcare. The continental event, co-convened by the African Union Commission and the Africa Early Childhood Network (AfECN), was held under the theme “Building Partnerships for Accelerating Action Towards Quality and Inclusive Childcare in Africa.”

FAWE was represented by Emily Gumba, Senior Programme Officer at the Regional Secretariat, who contributed to a panel discussion on the intersection of education and childcare. Emily shared FAWE’s experience supporting young mothers through its innovative Mothers’ Club Model, which operates in several African countries.

Mothers’ Clubs provide safe, school-based spaces for teen mothers to continue their education while receiving psychosocial support, parenting training, and life skills.

The model is increasingly being adopted in national policies, including Kenya’s School Re-entry Guidelines and broader child protection strategies in Malawi and The Gambia. FAWE’s contribution to the Coalition for Good Schools further reflects its commitment to ending school violence and promoting child wellbeing.

The conference underscored the importance of integrating education and caregiving to ensure no girl or child is left behind. FAWE’s work continues to demonstrate that when young mothers are supported, communities thrive.