Community-based child care programmes have been implemented in Tanzania to support orphans and vulnerable children since . A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews was employed to assess programme impacts over a decade. Children who participated in community-based child care demonstrated significant improvements in educational attainment (45% increase) compared to their peers not involved, while maintaining stable socio-emotional development. The programmes have had positive long-term effects on the academic and emotional outcomes of orphans but require continuous support for full benefits realization. Investment in infrastructure and training for caregivers should be prioritised, alongside sustainable funding mechanisms to ensure programme sustainability.