Rural-to-Urban Migration

Fred was born in Homa Bay County, but like many families in Kenya, his parents decided to move to the capital city in search of better opportunities, thus becoming rural-to-urban migrants. However, jobs remain scarce in cities like Nairobi in comparison to the growing population and Fred’s family ended up in Mathare, one of Nairobi’s informal settlements. He attended a secondary school in Eastleigh, a short distance from Mathare, and dreamed of becoming an engineer. However, life in Mathare began to present significant challenges to his education. The constant noise from nearby shanties made it hard to concentrate at home, and his family’s limited income meant paying school fees on time was often difficult which affected his attendance.

He longed for a quiet, resourceful space to focus on his studies.

Finding SHOFCO Libraries

In 2016, while chatting with a friend, Fred learned about SHOFCO’s library in Mathare. Curious and eager to find a solution to his challenges, he visited the library and signed up as a member. The library quickly became his go-to place for studying and research. It provided access to books, revision materials, and free internet, giving him the tools he needed to stay on track academically.

Even when sent home from school due to unpaid fees, Fred used the library to keep learning and preparing for exams. This support helped him achieve a B in his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams.

With these grades, he secured government sponsorship to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in economics and statistics at Machakos University College. Now in his final year of university, Fred continues to use the SHOFCO library when he is home from college.

SHOFCO’s Mathare Library played a crucial role in Fred’s education by offering:

  • Study Space: A quiet, safe environment free from the noise of home.
  • Educational Resources: Access to textbooks, research materials, and digital tools.
  • Internet Access: Free Wi-Fi for research and personal development.

The Bigger Picture

Fred’s experience is one of many examples of how SHOFCO Libraries are making a difference in communities.

We plan to continue our library expansion, with our latest opening in Nyalenda, Kisumu and
host further youth programs and events where young people have access to a safe and supportive environment that promotes education.

Our libraries serve 257,000+ community members across Kenya

18

operational community libraries

257,339

library users across the country served in 2023

17,097

teens participated in mentorship sessions

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Support our library expansion and youth programs, creating safe spaces for learning and growth. Help us make it happen.

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