OPINION: Unlocking Kenya’s future - How reading transforms children’s lives

There is something truly magical about a child’s face when they are lost in a book. It’s not just the excitement in their eyes as they follow the adventures of the characters, but also the quiet transformation taking place deep within them.

With each page turned, they are building a better understanding of the world, nurturing their imagination, and, often unknowingly, laying the groundwork for their future. Yet, in Kenya, thousands of children grow up without access to books, leaving them without the opportunity to experience this transformation.

Reading isn’t just about developing intellect—it’s about nurturing empathy and social understanding. When children read stories, they step into the shoes of different characters, broadening their perspectives and learning to see the world from different viewpoints.

The empathy that develops from reading has a direct impact on how children relate to others in their community and their ability to foster positive relationships.

While the benefits of reading are well documented, access to books remains a significant challenge for many Kenyan children. According to UNESCO, nearly 30% of children in Kenya don’t have access to age-appropriate reading material. This gap is especially visible in areas where schools and homes alike often lack the resources to provide books.

Other studies by UNICEF (2022) reveal that only 10-30% of children under five are read to by their parents in Africa. In many Sub-Saharan African countries, most households with young children don't have children's books.

However, we are witnessing heartwarming stories that reflect the transformative power of reading, no matter where a child comes from. Children like Ian Olive and Quintine Owino, both from Kibera, have defied the odds by reading over 400 books each through digital reading programs, showcasing how access to books can broaden horizons even in resource-limited areas.

Similarly, Wesley Joel, a child who has had more access to books through the Kenya National Library Service in Buruburu, has read over 600 books, which exemplifies how reading opportunities unite different experiences and cultivate a shared passion for learning.

As more schools in Kenya face challenges like lack of library resources and low book presence at home, equitable solutions such as digital platforms are becoming increasingly important. They provide access to diverse reading materials at a fraction of the cost of supplying traditional books.

This levels the playing field for children who live in areas where books are scarce, while also complementing the resources available to children with access to books, bearing testament to the equalizing potential digital literacy platforms have.

Equally critical to this equation is the role of parents and caregivers. Early reading at home is fundamental to a child’s development, but it requires active engagement from those bringing up these children. Research done by Nationwide Children’s showed that children who are read to regularly develop stronger neural connections in language and comprehension areas.

More research by the National Center for Education Statistics (US) pointed out that by kindergarten, children who engage in reading activities at home can recognize letters, words, and basic numbers more readily. This is why platforms like BookSmart, which mainly target children aged 3-12, are designed to support families by providing accessible reading materials, empowering caregivers to be part of their children’s learning journey. 

In the end, it’s not just about how many books these children read—It’s about those precious moments when a parent sits down with their child. In those quiet moments, the world slows down, and a bond deepens. Whether it’s a father helping his daughter sound out her first words or a mother bringing a bedtime story to life by mimicking the characters’ voices, these simple acts are all about connection, love, and trust.

As the child listens, they not only absorb the story but also feel the security of their caregivers’ presence, knowing that they are valued and supported. It’s in these moments that a love for learning is born, shaping the child’s view of themselves and the world around them. Every story they read lays the foundation for a brighter tomorrow—one where these children believe they can do anything, simply because someone took the time to read with them.

As we approach Mashujaa Day, a day to honour Kenya’s heroes, we have petitioned for children like Quintine, Ian, and Wesley to be recognized nationally. These young readers embody the future of Kenya—a future where literacy, education, and opportunity go hand in hand, paving the way for every child to achieve their dreams.

Recognizing their achievements would send a powerful message to children across the country: that the ability to read, dream, and excel should not be determined by where you come from but by your love for learning.

To sum it all up, digital literacy is not a privilege; it is a right. Every child deserves the chance to access the tools and knowledge that will shape their future. Reading—whether through physical books or digital platforms—should be a door open to all, not a barrier determined by circumstance. By ensuring every child has the opportunity to read and learn, we empower them to dream bigger, achieve more, and take control of their destiny. 

The writer is the Director of Partnerships and Services at worldreader.org  East Africa