DRC: SCHOOLS NEED A SCHOOL LIBRARY IN SOUTH-KIVU

Bukavu: A Library for the Future of Schools

Project Title: DRC – Schools Need a Library in South-Kivu
Location: Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
Total Budget: $10,000 USD
Funds Raised So Far: $140 USD
Fundraising Partner: GlobalGiving
Project Launch Date: November 2025

Background and Rationale

In the city of Bukavu, home to over 1.5 million people, there are no public libraries accessible to youth or families—especially in the city’s outlying neighborhoods. School libraries do not acquire books and do not encourage reading. Children grow up without regular exposure to books, which severely hinders their intellectual development and basic literacy skills.

Today, there is an urgent need for a concrete and sustainable solution.

Project Objective

The goal is to create a community-based school library in Bukavu that will serve ten underserved schools free of charge, in order to:

• Provide early access to books and reading materials;
• Promote reading as a leisure and learning activity;
• Involve schools and families in a shared educational effort;
• Equip teachers with tools to use the library as a teaching resource;
• Create a cultural and artistic space centered around books.

Project Progress

Thanks to our partnership with GlobalGiving, we’ve begun fundraising efforts. So far, $140 USD has been collected—a promising first step.
We are currently in the phase of identifying trainers and student beneficiaries. The official project activities will begin in November 2025.

Ten partner schools have already been selected. A dedicated team will support them daily by organizing book-related activities, guiding students through reading sessions, and ensuring smooth operations. Schools will also be supported in engaging parents to help sustain the initiative long-term.

Expected Impact

• Directly reach over 3,000 children from disadvantaged areas
• Provide a safe and stimulating space for personal and intellectual growth
• Bridge the gap in access to culture and education
• Strengthen school-family collaboration around education

Sustainability Plan

To ensure long-term success, schools will be encouraged to collaborate with families in maintaining the library and renewing its book collection.
Our team will remain engaged to offer continuous support and training for teachers, and to animate the library with meaningful educational activities.

Call to Donors

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who have already contributed to this project. Your generosity has helped us take the first step.

But there is still a long way to go, and your support is crucial.
With $10,000 USD, we can change the future for thousands of children.
Every donation counts. Every book opens a world of possibilities.

-Join us in this life-changing, community-driven initiative.
-Help us build a library that will serve as a beacon of hope and learning.

Thank you to all our partners, to GlobalGiving, and to each and every donor.
Together, we can build a world where every child has the right to read, dream, and succeed.