The AMG Foundation, through its “Empower Future Lives” initiative, has opened its fourth library, the largest to date, with a seating capacity of 200 in Nanyuki, Laikipia County.
Situated in the Majengo area- an informal settlement behind Cedar Mall, this library is the collective contribution of AMG Realtors’ customers. It is the result of the September campaign, “A Plot for You, A Library for Them,” which aimed to support provision of educational resources in the community. For every Ksh 100,000 invested, 12 books were purchased, and for every Ksh 500,000 invested, a computer was acquired.
“With the milestone of over 5,000 books reached, this dream has become a reality. In recognition, a Wall of Fame in the library will honor the names of all contributors who made this possible,” said AMG Chief Executive Officer, Marting Githinji.
The libraries established by AMG Foundation are strategically located in shopping centers rather than schools, ensuring accessibility for everyone, not just students with access to school libraries. Library services are offered free of charge.
This new facility follows three other successful launches in Kibera, as well as Kagunduini, and Githumu in Murang’a County.
Collectively, these libraries have provided over 10,000 free textbooks and learning spaces equipped with more than 36 computers and learning tablets connected to the internet.
“These resources help bridge educational gaps, particularly for families in underserved communities who are unable to afford the CBC curriculum,” said Githinji.
Through this libraries, AMG Foundation is affirming its committemment to Global Goal 4 on Quality Education that seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
“We understand that knowledge is what unites or equalizes everything. If you come from a poor family or a wealthy family, knowledge is what unites or equalizes everything,” said AMG Foundation Chairman, Andrew Gitau.
He added, “The School syllabus has changed from 844 to the CBC. That’s also a very big load to the parents. So we are trying to supplement what the government is doing by providing those textbooks. This library, like the others, is not just an AMG Foundation achievement. It is a space of learning. It is a place of dreaming. It is a place of growing. A foundation for building a brighter future.”
Laikipia County Governor, Joseph Irungu said, “Most school going children in this area always lack the opportunity to get access to books, library services and their parents can barely afford to buy books, its always a big challenge. When we see AMG Foundation put up a building like this, a library service, with books of all kinds even of the curriculum of the time, the CBC, we are very grateful.”
The libraries in Githumu and Kagunduini experience an average monthly attendance of 500 students, a number that continues to grow as these facilities have a positive impact on their communities.