Learners in Kenya can now access BookSmart’s reading materials within M-Pesa app after the two organization partnered to inspire young readers.
The two have partnered to bring free, high-quality children’s books directly to the M-Pesa App making it easier for families to build strong reading routines from an early age.
“Every child deserves the chance to dream, explore, and grow through stories. By bringing Booksmart into the Mpesa App, we are putting the gift of reading right where it matters most- into the hands of parents and children, together at home. This is how we build a generation of confident, curious readers – one story, one family, one evening at a time,” said Olivia Kimani, Worldreader Director of Partnerships.
BookSmart which is a reading platform developed by Worldreader is designed to help children aged 3 to 12 fall in love with reading.
With over 2,700+ engaging books and learning activities in both English and Kiswahili, the app features stories about adventure, science, pre-school, sports, and more, all available at no cost.
Data from Worldreader shows that just 10 minutes of reading a day with a caring adult can improve a child’s vocabulary, school readiness, empathy, and confidence. But with many families lacking access to age-appropriate children’s books, BookSmart offers an innovative solution by turning any smartphone into a personal library.
“We’re in a global reading crisis, not because children don’t want to read, but because too many families lack the tools to help them start,” said Rebecca Chandler Leege, CEO of Worldreader.
The partnership is further expected to eliminate barriers which inhibit the reading culture affecting millions of Kenyan children.
