Exploring Early Childhood Development Interventions for Building Human Capital in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping
Johanna Beukes1, Stephanie Alcock1, Michelle Leal1
1SAMRC Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Child: Care, Health and Development
|July 16, 2025
Summary
Early childhood development (ECD) interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa often focus on limited Nurturing Care framework (NCF) elements. Holistic, multi-component ECD programs show promise but require broader regional application.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Developmental Psychology
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Persistent inequalities in early childhood development (ECD) interventions across Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Scoping review to analyze ECD interventions using the Nurturing Care framework (NCF).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the types and extent of ECD interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- To assess the alignment of existing interventions with the NCF dimensions.
Main Methods:
- Scoping review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on ECD interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa (2019-2024).
- Searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, ProQuest, and PsychInfo; utilized Rayyan for abstract and full-text screening.
Main Results:
- 21 studies from 13 countries were included; Eastern and Southern Africa were overrepresented, while Western and Central Africa were underrepresented.
- Nutrition-focused interventions (n=9) demonstrated the most significant positive impact on child weight and growth.
- Responsive care interventions (n=2) reduced maltreatment and behavioral issues. Interventions focusing on early learning, safety, or health showed mixed results. Multidimensional interventions reported more positive outcomes across multiple NCF domains.
Conclusions:
- Current ECD interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa predominantly address only a few NCF elements.
- There is a critical need to develop and evaluate comprehensive interventions incorporating all NCF dimensions.
- Increased focus on underrepresented regions is essential to meet diverse local ECD needs effectively.
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