As the year draws to an end, the world is entering the usual season of cheer, of goodwill and giving.
Come along with me let's see why African Libraries need lots of goodwill and donations from everyone all over the world!
1. Africa's demographics show a youth bulge that is highly unemployed. This has largely been attributed to their lack of possession of 21st century skills such as digital literacy skills, problem solving, critical thinking, communication skills etc. Now Libraries all over Africa are bridging this gap and teaching these skills from Pretoria to Lagos, Nairobi to Kampala, Accra to Kibera, Abuja to Durban. With more funding AfLIA as the umbrella Body of African Libraries can do more to change the narrative of unemployment among African youths. Libraries are also helping African youths to identify and exploit economic opportunities.
2. Also, times are changing. Fast. Africa can no longer rely solely on natural resources as income earners. Smart countries now understand that knowledge is the new money spinner for robust economies. Libraries help by providing access to technology and free or dirt cheap Internet to all. Africa needs this. Africa needs this now! Africa needs spaces for young people and the not-too young to get creative. Supporting AfLIA can make this achievable all over the continent as Libraries are turned into tech and startup hubs.
3. The rate of basic Literacy in the continent is low even as we have the highest number of out of school children in the world. Research has shown over and over again that libraries help children to stay on in schools. We can help to create The Africa We Want by funding AfLIA to have better Libraries all over the continent.
4. Did we see the video clips f Africans being auctioned as slaves in Libya? Demeaning, dehumanising, heart-rending! Africa's next generation is being wasted away! Our young people are lured into this through false information of 'green pastures' in other climes. Libraries can help counter this by providing accurate and relevant information about other countries.
Still with me?
AfLIA is launching an appeal on the global giving platform. You need to have a look. You need to get involved! Can Africa count on you in this season of cheer and goodwill? Join me to create the Africa We Want as we support AfLIA to do more.
https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/innovating-through-libraries-for-100000-africans/
