Capricorn backs ECD outcomes fund
The Capricorn Foundation has announced a partnership with the ministry of educationand EOF to support a new outcomes fund aimed at strengthening formalised early childhood development (ECD) in Namibia.
As part of the partnership, the Capricorn Foundation has committed a minimum of N$5 million over three years, becoming the first local private-sector partner to support the initiative. The commitment marks a significant step in anchoring Namibia's ECD reform in domestic leadership.
The Namibian outcomes partnership is currently in the design phase, with its launch anticipated in 2027.
Led by MEIYSAC and EOF, the programme is expected to reach more than 25,000 children over a three-year period.
Funding will be provided through an outcomes-based financing model, under which payments are made only when independently verified improvements in child development, centre quality and nutrition outcomes are achieved.
"Strengthening early childhood development is central to our vision for Namibia's future. We welcome the partnership with the Capricorn Foundation, which reflects strong domestic leadership and a shared commitment to improving outcomes for young children. Their support will help ensure that increased investment translates into real gains for young children and stronger foundations for learning," education minister, Sanet Steenkamp said.
"As the first local private-sector partner in this initiative, we are proud to support a model that pays for results and prioritises lasting impact. We look forward to partnering with the ministry of education and EOF in advancing transformational progress in early childhood development in Namibia. Early childhood development is where opportunity begins. By backing this partnership, we are investing not only in young children, but in Namibia's future," Marlize Horn, the executive director of the Capricorn Foundation said.
"This partnership shows the kind of holistic, systems-change approach needed to transform early childhood development: local actors taking ownership across the public and philanthropic sectors, with support that complements and amplifies government efforts. The Capricorn Foundation's leadership reflects a true ecosystem-wide partnership that will help build the systems Namibia needs for lasting change. It also strengthens a growing outcomes-focused movement across the region, with real potential to shape ECD reform well beyond Namibia's borders," Amel Karboul, CEO of EOF, said.
