Challenge

This project will equip a rural community library with a computer lab, including ten laptops, internet access, instructors, solar electricity and battery charging. Africa SOMA has been working since 2007 to open and equip this library, the first one to exist in the isolated and drought-prone area. This computer lab, in partnership with Smallbean, will provide students and community members with access to technology, educational resources, training, and a much needed means of communication.

Solution

In southern Kenya, recent droughts have decimated the cattle herds of the Maasai. There is increasing urgency for diversification through education, small business creation and agriculture. However, communities are remote, and lack access to electricity and information. Despite the enthusiasm of students, schools are understaffed and lacking even the most basic resources. However, without computer literacy, it is difficult for graduates and community members to be competitive in the job market.

Long-Term Impact

The Elangata Wuas Resource Centre, opened in August 2010, has already increased access to learning materials and provided programs such as adult literacy classes. Highly in demand, courses offered at this computer lab will teach skills needed to be competitive in the job market. Information on alternative income sources will be available at the click of a mouse, helping reduce the economic devastation of future droughts. Solar electricity will allow a much greater diversity of library programs.

Additional Documentation

This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).

Resources