Freetown, Sierra Leone — Develop Africa Sierra Leone (DASL) has been recognized in the July 2026 edition of the Sierra Leone Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (SLANGO) Newsletter for its impact on education through the Year of the Pencil initiative.

The feature highlights Develop Africa's commitment to expanding access to quality education by removing one of the simplest yet most common barriers to learning: the lack of basic school supplies.

Source: https://www.developafrica.org/sites/default/files/SLANGO-Newsletter-July-2026.pdf

Building Stronger Communities Through Education

Develop Africa Sierra Leone continues to invest in sustainable development through programs focused on:

• Education
• Capacity building
• Community empowerment
• Youth development
• Livelihood support

Working across the Western Area, Bo, Bombali, and Karene districts, the organization partners with schools and communities to create lasting opportunities for children and families.

100,000 Pencils Distributed in One Day

One of the organization's largest education campaigns, the Year of the Pencil, reached a major milestone on November 20, 2025.

In a single day, Develop Africa distributed:

• 100,000 pencils
• 10,000 pupils reached
• 20 schools served
• Each child received a pencil kit containing 10 pencils and 2 sharpeners

The campaign benefited schools across Freetown, including FAWE Primary School for Girls, Stella Maris Primary School, Pentecostal Primary School, Hope Academy for Girls, Regent Square Municipal Infant Primary School, Kingtom Police Infant Primary School, Murray Town Municipal Infant Primary School, Tower Hill Municipal Infant Primary School, and several other government and community schools.

More Than School Supplies

The SLANGO feature notes that the initiative did more than provide writing materials.

"Additionally, the project promoted equity by ensuring all students had access to essential tools, reducing disparities and easing the burdens on teachers. Overall, the initiative demonstrates DASL's commitment to delibering inmpactuful comminoty driven programm that support education, improve livelihoods, and drive long-term development in Sierra Leone."

By ensuring pupils had the tools needed to participate in class, the campaign helped:

• Increase classroom participation
• Improve student confidence
• Encourage regular completion of assignments
• Promote equal access to learning materials
• Reduce the burden on teachers and families

The initiative also strengthened students' sense of ownership and motivation toward learning.

A Shared Commitment to Education

Develop Africa believes that lasting change often begins with practical solutions. A simple pencil can open the door to learning, participation, and opportunity.

The recognition in the SLANGO Newsletter reflects the collective effort of donors, partners, volunteers, educators, and community leaders who continue to make these programs possible.

Every contribution helps equip children with the tools they need to learn today and build brighter futures tomorrow.

About Develop Africa

Develop Africa works to improve lives through education, leadership development, health, and livelihood programs across Sierra Leone and other African countries. By partnering with local communities and supporters around the world, the organization helps children and families gain the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

To learn more about Develop Africa, visit www.developafrica.org