Soma Library on Wheels

A Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative of Sisi Analytica

About SLOW

Soma Library on Wheels (SLOW) is a flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of Sisi Analytica, a Pan-African literary consultancy and publisher headquartered in Uganda. Rooted in the conviction that literacy is the foundation of empowerment, SLOW seeks to inspire a reading and writing culture in East Africa by taking books, knowledge, and inspiration directly to communities, schools, and individuals with limited access to libraries and learning resources.

The name “Soma”—meaning “read” in Swahili—embodies the spirit of curiosity, lifelong learning, and the democratization of knowledge.

Vision

A vibrant, literate, and informed society where reading and writing are integral to personal growth, innovation, and national development.

Mission

To inspire and nurture a sustainable reading and writing culture across East Africa through mobile library services, creative engagements, and strategic partnerships that promote access to knowledge and literary expression.

Core Objectives

• Expand Access to Books and Knowledge
• Deliver books and reading materials to underserved schools and communities through a mobile library network.
• Promote Creative Expression
• Conduct creative writing masterclasses and mentorship programs for learners, teachers, and emerging writers.
• Build Sustainable Knowledge Hubs
• Support the establishment and strengthening of community and school libraries as centres of learning and creativity.
• Facilitate the translation of books into local languages, ensuring inclusivity and cultural relevance in reading materials.
• Foster Partnerships for Literacy Development
• Collaborate with local and international stakeholders—publishers, authors, NGOs, and educational institutions—to advance literacy and storytelling in Africa.

Key Activities

• School and Community Outreaches:
  Mobile visits to schools and rural communities to distribute books, conduct reading sessions, and engage learners in storytelling activities.
• Creative Writing Masterclasses:
  Workshops aimed at nurturing the next generation of African storytellers by equipping them with writing, editing, and publishing skills.
• Creation of Knowledge Centres:
  Establishing mini-libraries or reading corners in schools, churches, and community centres to serve as sustainable literacy hubs.
• Translation and Localization Projects:
  Translating selected titles into indigenous languages to bridge linguistic barriers and celebrate African identity.
• Book Donation Drives:
  Mobilizing book donations from individuals, publishers, and institutions for distribution to underserved communities.
• Collaborations and Partnerships:
  Working with government bodies, development partners, and private entities to co-create impactful literacy programs.

Strategic Pillars

• Accessibility: Bringing books closer to readers through mobile library units and digital access points.
• Inclusivity: Ensuring that language, geography, or economic background does not hinder access to knowledge.
• Creativity: Promoting writing and storytelling as tools for self-expression, healing, and social transformation.
• Partnership: Leveraging networks to amplify impact and sustainability.
• Sustainability: Empowering communities to maintain reading culture beyond Soma’s direct involvement.

Target Beneficiaries

• Primary and secondary school learners
• Teachers and educators
• Rural and peri-urban communities
• Emerging writers and creatives
• Community-based organizations

 

 

Impact Goals (2025–2030)

• Reach 500 schools and 200 communities across East Africa.
• Distribute over 100,000 books to children and learners in underprivileged areas.
• Train 5,000 students and teachers through creative writing and reading engagement programs.
• Facilitate the translation of 50 books into key local languages (Luganda, Runyankore, Swahili, Luo, etc.).
• Establish 100 knowledge centres across the region.

Implementation Model

The Soma Library on Wheels operates as a mobile literacy program under Sisi Analytica’s CSR wing, with a dedicated team of volunteers, educators, and writers. The initiative integrates physical mobility (through library vans and book drives) with creative education (masterclasses, storytelling sessions, and literacy clubs) to maximize outreach and impact.

Call for Partnership

Soma invites corporate entities, development partners, educational institutions, and individuals to join in advancing the literacy movement. Together, we can ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to read, write, and dream.

Contact Information

Sisi Analytica (U) Ltd
Pan-African Literary Consultancy & Publishers
Kampala, Uganda
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