Help to rural library in Ivory Coast

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

My inspiration for the project in Ivory Coast was Leonie. She is a young entrepreneur who also runs a local NGO, Kids’ House, which helps open libraries in the country’s poorest and most remote communities.

Prior to visiting the newly inaugurated library located in the village of Elibou 2, we purchased school utensils, board games and books in Abidjan. Additionally, we had brought two suitcases of used sneakers and clothes in very good condition from home. Two people from the NGO accompanied my family and Leonie to transport all the goods via public transport to the village, which is situated two hours from Abidjan. When reaching the school compound in Elibou 2 a group of approximately 100 kids was already waiting for us.

As soon as we entered the enclosure, they started singing and clapping hands. I used all my knowledge of French to give a speech to the kids and representatives of the local community.

We divided ourselves into different groups, played games, cards, gave basic lessons of English, read books and listened to songs that the kids were performing. It was getting hot in the library; therefore, we moved outside to play, dance and entertain.

We donated books, workbooks, board games and some school utensils that upgraded the initial limited collection by the charity organization Kids’ House. It seemed that the cause was right; the schoolmaster was very enthusiastic; the local authorities were involved and the kids highly appreciated our presence.

The Ivory Coast donation project is part of FARO, a voluntary and 100% donor-funded initiative serving to improve the quality of life of underprivileged children in developing countries. Read more about FARO at this link.