The DBE continues to strengthen ECD services through the Bana Pele ECD Registration Silver Activation Drive, held on 19 June 2026, at Matimba Siqobile Community Centre, in Mamelodi, Gauteng. The initiative forms part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to support ECD centres in meeting registration requirements, improving compliance, and ensuring alignment with national standards and regulatory frameworks.

The Silver Activation Drive brought together government officials, ECD practitioners, and sector stakeholders committed to advancing child development and strengthening collaboration within the sector. Reflections during the engagement highlighted the critical role of ECD as the foundation for lifelong learning, well-being, and future educational success, whilst reinforcing the importance of high-quality early learning environments for young children.

With an estimated 50,000 ECD centres operating across South Africa and approximately 15,000 ECD programmes currently registered at Bronze level, the focus remains on creating accessible and coordinated registration pathways. Through the Bana Pele programme, practitioners are supported to progress through the registration process whilst receiving guidance on compliance requirements and operational standards.

Throughout the engagement, insights were shared on the importance of collective responsibility in strengthening the sector. DBE’s Ms Mpho Papale encouraged ECD practitioners to support one another through peer-to-peer networks and information-sharing platforms that can assist centres in navigating registration processes more effectively. Practitioners experiencing challenges were urged to seek assistance from departmental officials and sector partners, ensuring that barriers to registration can be addressed through collaboration and ongoing support.

A key outcome of the programme is the establishment of structured monthly engagements between stakeholders. These engagements provide a platform for continuous information sharing, monitoring, and compliance support, enabling practitioners to receive practical guidance on registration requirements, operational standards, and regulatory obligations. The initiative also strengthens coordination between government departments and sector stakeholders, contributing to more effective implementation of ECD policies and procedures.

The session further featured a presentation by an Environmental Health Practitioner from the City of Tshwane, who addressed ECD practitioners on critical health, safety, and compliance requirements necessary for registration and ongoing operations. Particular attention was given to zoning, which remains one of the most common challenges experienced by ECD operators. Practitioners were encouraged to engage with the relevant municipal departments responsible for land use management and town planning when zoning approvals are required.

The day concluded on a celebratory note with a special visit from Takalani Sesame's beloved character, Elmo, to the children of Wize Kidz Daycare.