Kiwimbi International
Creating educational opportunities through locally run libraries and community learning centers
Location: Kenya
Sponsor: Brian Hegarty
Kiwimbi International: A first-time grantee in 2024
Kiwimbi is an education-focused nonprofit operating in Busia County, one of the poorest counties in rural Kenya. As schools in this region are underfunded, Kiwimbi provides a variety of educational and vocational programs for primary grade students and young adults that are run through locally run libraries and community learning centers. It creates independent programming as well as assists schools with staff, books, and other supplies. Over eighty schools across the county (serving 50,000 students) benefit, and there is secondary benefit to the community at large.
The name Kiwimbi is a Swahili word for ‘small wave’, a deliberate choice that reflects the belief that improved education can serve as a ripple moving out from student participants to create an ever-expanding wave of impact on the overall community.
Among the many academic and vocational opportunities offered, the Prep for Success program runs year-round and focuses on improving math and English language skills. The program takes a holistic approach to learning, complementing the academic curriculum with mentoring and nutritious lunches. Operating in three schools, it prepares 8th graders with foundational skills that will help them advance their education and succeed in life.
For more information, see: kiwimbi.org
GRANT SUMMARY AND PURPOSE
2024: A grant of $40,000 will serve as the sole source of funding for a new computer lab that supports the Prep for Success program. The bulk of the monies will be used to purchase laptops while some of the grant will also be used to hire a teacher and buy software. The grant will also partially fund other school supplies, contribute to staff salaries, and provide school lunches for students.
GOAL
Through computer labs, libraries and community learning centers, Kiwimbi seeks to help students develop valuable digital literacy and improve the quality of their overall education. The goal is to see higher scores on national tests that will better prepare students for further education and future career opportunities. Over time, this will create an impact in the community where Kiwimbi operates and promote progress especially in rural Kenya.
