ELDAMA RAVINE, Baringo County, September 11, 2026 — The Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) and Book Aid International have donated 600 books to schools in Baringo County as the government reaffirmed its commitment to making literacy a national development priority.

The donation was made during the commemoration of International Literacy Day 2026 at the Eldama Ravine County Library, bringing together learners, teachers, parents, librarians and government officials.

Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture and Children Services Hanna Cheptumo said literacy should be treated as a priority across government rather than being viewed solely as an education-sector responsibility.

She noted that the meaning of literacy has expanded beyond the traditional ability to read and write to include the capacity to access, understand, evaluate and apply information.

“Literacy today encompasses not only the ability to read and write, but also the capacity to access, understand, evaluate and apply information,” Cheptumo said, pointing to digital, financial and media literacy as increasingly important skills.

The CS linked literacy to Kenya’s broader human capital development agenda, saying it provides a foundation for education, skills development and economic participation.

She also called for greater equity in access to learning materials, particularly for children in rural and underserved communities.

“A child’s location should not determine the quality of learning resources and opportunities available to them,” she said.

The 600 books, donated through the partnership between KNLS and Book Aid International, were formally handed over to representatives of participating schools during the event.

Cheptumo described the donation as a practical investment in the education and future of Kenyan children, while commending Book Aid International for its longstanding collaboration with KNLS.

The celebrations were held under the theme “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity” and marked the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day.

Learners participated in an International Literacy Day Book March procession before touring the Eldama Ravine County Library. The programme also featured entertainment and activities centred on reading and literacy.

KNLS Director General Dr Charles Nzivo said libraries remain important community spaces for expanding access to knowledge and supporting lifelong learning.

“Libraries give communities opportunities to access knowledge, develop reading habits, acquire digital skills and engage in lifelong learning,” Nzivo said.

He encouraged learners to make libraries part of their continuing education and personal development.

KNLS Board Chairman Bishop Robert Theuri Maina called for stronger collaboration between national and county governments and development partners to expand literacy programmes.

He said the Eldama Ravine County Library continues to serve as an important community resource, while noting that there is room to scale up literacy initiatives and reach more learners in the region.

The donation comes as Kenya continues to place greater emphasis on equipping learners not only with basic reading and writing skills but also with the ability to navigate and use information effectively in an increasingly digital society.