Akili Trust

We work in the very rural part of northern Kenya, Coast Province, in villages that are just being connected to electricity.

Our aim is to set up community libraries, which are based in primary schools. We have chosen to be based in primary schools partly because we do not then have to buy property and partly because primary schools are very central to the life of the community. Primary education in Kenya has only been free since 2003.

Our libraries are used by the school , by other neighbouring primary and secondary schools and by all members of the community.  A newspaper in one of our libraries can be read by upwards of 50 people.

Our work is based on a belief in the value of education and the need to broaden minds. We know how key reading and ideas and libraries are to this. We are supported in this by the communities.

Akili is an example of a small economic model of intervention – planned with and working with the local community, through management committees, local staff and families .  We want to increase the opportunities that are available particularly for young people and evaluate the impact of this model over time.