Atlanta’s Heart Beats for Literacy in Southern Africa
In the heart of Atlanta, a remarkable effort is underway to change the lives of countless students in Zambia. Recently, a fundraising luncheon at the Buckhead Club brought dedicated supporters together to raise awareness and funds for Books for Africa, an organization that is working tirelessly to combat the so-called “book famine” in Africa.
A Commitment to Change
The event featured a stirring speech from Zambia’s ambassador to the United States, Chibamba Kanyama, who took time out of his busy schedule amidst Hurricane Helene’s aftermath to share his thoughts on the transformative power of books. Despite many parts of Atlanta being under lockdown due to the weather, the ambassador flew in early Friday morning to show his unwavering support for the organization, which celebrated sending its millionth book to Zambia.
“For many students,” Kanyama said, “books provide a first glimpse into new ideas, new worlds, and new possibilities.” He highlighted how critical literacy is for a country that, although it has achieved an impressive 88 percent literacy rate, still faces challenges in providing adequate opportunities for its rapidly growing youth population.
The Importance of Education
During his speech, Kanyama made it clear that education is not merely a privilege but a foundational element for a thriving nation. He emphasized that educating young people is essential for their dreams and aspirations. “Young Zambians are learning to dream,” he noted, “they’re also learning to build a future where education unlocks unlimited potential.”
Among his points, he particularly appreciated a recent donation of law books, indicating that they are crucial during a time when many Zambians question the integrity of the legal system and other key institutions.
Books for Africa: A Lifeline
Books for Africa aims to fill a critical gap in educational resources by providing under-resourced schools with essential reading materials. Since its inception in 1988, the organization has sent 60 million books to various countries across the continent. They operate by collecting and sorting donated books in their Atlanta warehouse before shipping them in 40-foot containers to various destinations in Africa.
Patrick Plonski, the executive director of Books for Africa, couldn’t attend the luncheon, but the event’s founder, Tom Warth, expressed gratitude for Atlanta’s invaluable contribution to the organization’s success. “We in Minneapolis think we’re the core of Books for Africa. But it is here in Atlanta that our operation thrives,” he remarked.
Local Heroes Step Up
Among the attendees were various board members and volunteers, one of whom, Perry Mitchell, has dedicated his time to the cause for many years. At over 80 years old, he drives to the Marietta warehouse twice a week, emphasizing his belief that educating girls and women in developing countries is one of the most effective ways to improve the world.
Fotemah Mba, another long-time board member who has lived in Atlanta since 1991, echoed this sentiment by stating, “Atlanta shows up and shows out” when it comes to helping Africa develop. He believes that Atlanta has a unique influence in the realm of aid and development.
A Lasting Impact
The event closed with remarks from Jay Madden, executive pastor at Peachtree Presbyterian Church, who shared a poignant story from the church’s work in Malawi. He recounted how a student told him they had a library, but it was devoid of useful information until the partnership with Books for Africa changed that.
Ambassador Kanyama underscored the enduring need for such organizations in Africa, stating that “countless children” are still waiting for their first book. He reiterated, “How can we expect a child to reach their full potential without access to the tools they need to learn?”
As the sun set over Atlanta, the community left the luncheon not just inspired, but committed to making a difference, one book at a time.
