IECCD Portage Approach Impact Brief: Malawi

The Portage Approach is a home-based early childhood care model that emphasizes the central role of parents in their children’s development. This approach was derived from Saint John of God Hospitaller Services (SJOG), an institution that provides community-based Mental Health Rehabilitation services, and services for CwD and/or special needs. The portage approach specifically targets children aged 0-6 years living with disabilities or at risk due to factors like low birth weight, low Apgar scores, or complications during pregnancy and birth. These children often require early rehabilitation interventions for conditions such as cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, developmental delays, congenital birth defects, and intellectual disabilities.

In partnership with SJOG, Save the Children has been implementing the portage approach in Mzimba South since 2021 through the Inclusive Early Childhood Care and Development (IECCD) project. The project has also partnered with the Malawi Council of Disability Affairs, Ministry of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare and Ministry of Health to deliver this approach.