2024 – Karibia – Construction of a library

Library before. Source: Karibia

Library after. Source: Karibia

Social Issue

In the Kigoma region, home to 2.4 million inhabitants, there is no public library. The Tanzanian government began building a new library in 2020 as part of a national initiative to renovate the library system, funded by international development project funds. Unfortunately, the funds were insufficient to complete the construction and equipment of seven libraries, including the one in Kigoma. As a result, the infrastructure remains unfinished and unequipped, leaving the library inoperative, and it is already showing signs of deterioration due to lack of maintenance.

Our Response

Given the lack of funds, the government sought support from the NGO Karibia to complete and equip the library. Karibia and the local Kigoma library authorities joined efforts to finish and equip the library, providing access to the community and promoting lifelong education and the joy of reading.

The funds will be allocated to the completion and equipping of the library, including access infrastructure (paving, ramp, and exterior walls), IT equipment (computers, photocopier, printer), and furniture (chairs, double-sided bookshelves, tables, and computer desks).

The building’s maintenance is secured, as the government allocates an annual budget for the operation of all libraries in the country.

Expected Social Impact

Libraries are an essential part of education worldwide, providing a safe and conducive space for learning. They serve as community hubs, offering activities that promote reading, such as dramatizations, theater, book clubs, and literacy courses.

In many countries, public libraries are the primary or only providers of public access to information and communication technology and low-cost or free Internet.

Libraries in Africa play a key role in communities’ economic, environmental, and social development by promoting universal literacy, including digital, media, and information skills while preserving and providing access to world culture and heritage. Libraries enhance inclusive, equitable, and quality education opportunities, promoting lifelong learning for all.

This project aims to provide educational access, especially to children and youth in Kigoma, Tanzania, as schools in the area will use the library as a learning and meeting center. It will also be an important resource for the wider community.