Dubai Cares, in partnership with Save the Children, supported the development of a global model to operationalize the Nurturing Care Framework (NCF)—a UNICEF and WHO-led framework that ensures children aged 0 to 3 receive the care they need to thrive in humanitarian settings. To inform global implementation, Save the Children required a concrete program that would generate evidence and learning.

Uganda, home to over 1.3 million refugees—82% of whom are women and children—was selected as the pilot location. Refugee children in Uganda face numerous risks including separation, violence, and malnutrition, while caregivers—especially women—experience psychological distress. Many parents lack sufficient knowledge and support to provide nurturing care, limiting children’s developmental potential.

Building on an existing initiative, Boost for the Youngest, Dubai Cares’ support helped Save the Children further develop the model, capture evidence, and produce practical toolkits. The program was piloted in refugee settlements across Arua, Yumbe, and Kiryandongo districts, with an advocacy component aimed at influencing national and global policymakers. The initiative laid the groundwork for a scalable model that ensures young children in crisis contexts receive the nurturing care they need.