NurtureFirst works to build and improve the systems that support home-based childcare (HBCC) providers globally, so that they can deliver evidence-based, affordable, culturally relevant childcare wherever they are. We apply a strategic systems approach to understand the needs of providers and how to catalyze change so that the ecosystem as a whole works to improve the lives of childcare providers, the children in their care and the families who depend on them. This database is both a rich collection of HBCC Data gathered in 2024, and the results of locally-led ecosystem mapping led by local collaborative - or County Working Groups - in each location.

The NurtureFirst HBCC Database was developed following a comprehensive mapping survey conducted in 2024 across Mombasa, Murang'a, and Kisumu counties. The survey aimed to represent at least 25% of the estimated population of Home-Based Childcare (HBCC) providers in each county. To ensure fair representation across diverse geographical areas, a stratified random sampling method was used to select providers from each ward. Six months after the initial data collection, a verification exercise was conducted to confirm the accuracy and relevance of the data.

Participants responded to questions on a range of topics, including provider and child demographics, daily operations, access to support services, and the challenges they face. The goal of this mapping exercise was to uncover the needs of HBCC providers and guide the development of targeted, context-sensitive interventions.

In all three counties, NurtureFirst is working closely with local partners to implement learning initiatives that enhance the quality of care provided by HBCC providers.

Why is this important?

Reliable data on HBCC remains limited, yet it's critical. This platform helps bridge that gap, offering a clearer picture of the sector to inform policy, planning, and advocacy for greater recognition and support of HBCC providers.

All data was collected with verbal and written consent, in accordance with the Kenya Data Protection Act, 2019. Only providers who gave explicit permission to store their information in the database are included. The data remains the intellectual property of NurtureFirst, under the stewardship of its incubation host, the Global Development Incubator Inc.