Women in Technology and Innovation Africa(WITIA) launch 4.7 Million Smart Library in Kajiado- First of its Kind in Kenya.
Nairobi, Kenya, November 7, 2025 — In a groundbreaking move to bridge Kenya’s digital divide, Women in Technology & Innovation Africa (WITIA), in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Karen, has launched a Ksh 4.7 million Smart Library at Nkaimurunya Comprehensive School in Gataka, Kajiado County.
The state-of-the-art facility — the first of its kind in Kajiado North and possibly in Kenya marks a transformative step in promoting digital literacy and inclusive education in one of the country’s most underserved regions. The Smart Library is part of WITIA’s flagship initiative, “Smart Libraries for a Smart Nation,” which aims to empower learners through access to digital resources, innovation, and equitable learning opportunities.
Equipped with modern computers, reliable internet, and interactive e-learning platforms, the Smart Library opens a new frontier for students and teachers by offering access to global educational materials. The facility is designed to enhance creativity, research capacity, and technological fluency key skills for 21st-century learners.
National Leaders Praise Milestone in Education
Education Cabinet Secretary Hon. Julius Migos lauded the initiative as a crucial milestone in advancing equitable education.
“This Smart Library is a tangible expression of Kenya’s commitment to inclusive, technology-driven learning. The Ministry of Education fully supports partnerships that actualize the Competency-Based Curriculum and ensure no child is left behind in the digital era,” he said.
Echoing these sentiments, Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, Hon. Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui, highlighted the library’s alignment with Kenya’s digital transformation agenda.
“The future of education is digital. What WITIA has done here sets a model for the nation a demonstration of how innovation, partnership, and purpose can transform public education,” said Tanui.
Local Leaders and Community Welcome the Change
Hon. James Maina, MCA for Nkaimurunya Ward, described the project as a historic first for the region.
“This is the first Smart Library in Kajiado North and possibly the first in Kenya. It shows that even schools in informal settlements can lead in innovation when partners unite for a shared purpose,” he stated.
The Headteacher of Nkaimurunya Comprehensive School expressed heartfelt appreciation, noting that the Smart Library would revolutionize the learning environment.
“Our school serves a largely underserved community, and this Smart Library will completely transform our learners’ experience. We thank WITIA, the Rotary Club of Karen, and their partners for turning this dream into reality.”
Strategic Partnerships for Long-Term Impact
During the launch, WITIA signed two landmark Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). The first, with the Rotary Club of Karen, aims to deepen collaboration on education, digital literacy, and community empowerment. The second, with UNICAF, will provide scholarships to WITIA members and affiliates pursuing higher education in technology, innovation, and leadership.
These partnerships, according to WITIA, are designed to build a sustainable ecosystem that promotes lifelong learning, skills development, and gender equity in technology.
Partners Champion Inclusive Digital Transformation
WITIA Founder and Chairperson, Ms. Eunice Pohlmann, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to scaling the initiative.
“The Smart Library is more than a room with computers it’s a gateway to equal opportunity. Every child, regardless of their background, deserves access to the digital tools that define the future. We plan to replicate this model in other underserved schools across Kenya,” she said.
Dr. Bella Namango, a WITIA Advisory Board Member, emphasized that the initiative aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“The Smart Library embodies SDG 4 on Quality Education and SDG 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. It’s an investment in Kenya’s youth and a step toward equitable, tech-driven education.”
WITIA Programs Manager, Mr. Ian Wesa Sitati, described the project as more than a technology installation.
“Our goal is to create sustainable ecosystems of learning, mentorship, and innovation. Nkaimurunya is our proof of concept a model for bridging the digital divide through community partnerships.”
Rotary Club of Karen President, Ms. Linet Ayuko, underscored Rotary’s commitment to literacy and learning.
“Rotary is proud to partner with WITIA in this groundbreaking initiative. The Smart Library shows how collaboration and innovation can transform communities and open new opportunities for learners.”
Mr. Edwin Masivo, Country Director of Global Exhibition Hub (GEX), praised WITIA’s leadership in driving Kenya’s digital transformation.
“This Smart Library represents what can be achieved when innovation meets purpose. Together, we are shaping a future where technology empowers rather than excludes.”
A Model for Kenya’s Future
The Nkaimurunya Smart Library now stands as a pilot model demonstrating how community-driven, public-private partnerships can advance Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
With the support of the Ministries of Education and ICT, the Rotary Club of Karen, UNICAF, LoHo Learning, and GEX, WITIA plans to scale the Smart Libraries program nationwide ensuring that digital opportunity reaches every corner of Kenya.
