I met Mark Bartlett (Computer Equipment for Kids) several years ago.  I was amazed to see his passion for using his skills and abilities to give technology a second life and provide computers to kids. This blew me away because he was meeting such a vital need. I was very excited to connect with him. 

Develop Africa is delighted to have Mark and Computer Equipment for Kids as one of our partners. We have worked together now for several years. We have recycled hundreds of items and sent them to organizations, youths, and adults in Africa. Over the years, we have sent computers, tablets, monitors, and other devices, such as network hubs, modems, monitors, mice, etc., to Nigeria and Sierra Leone.

The resources we jointly provided now benefit hundreds of youths in Africa last year. Because of him, many youths in Africa today use his laptops for training or personal use. The laptops and tablets help them do their homework, write papers, and get through university. With these devices, the students can also access and use notes provided in PDF format, etc. 
 

The laptops are also being used on an organizational level for training.  For example, thanks in part to these laptops, youths benefit from a Digital Literacy Program/Basic Computer Appreciation Course in Nigeria

As explained by our partner S.M.I.L.E. Nigeria, “being digitally literate is now a major criterion for relevance and success in today's world and it has become imperative that we give girls access to opportunities in the technology space. 

We are glad we could help bridge the digital divide once again by digitally empowering these girls who could have been marginalized for lack of these skills.”

Photos of Digital Literacy Program in Nigeria: https://developafrica.smugmug.com/2024/SMILE-Nigeria-Laptops-from-CEFK

SMILE Nigeria - Facebook Post - https://www.facebook.com/smilengonline/posts/2296135883868084/

https://www.developafrica.org/22-girls-graduate-smile-digital-literacy-program

In November 2023, I had the opportunity to meet Mark in person for the first time.  This post includes a picture of us with about 28 laptops and several backpacks. We had a very enlightening conversation about our previous history in technology support and changes in technology over the years.

Mark has a tremendous heart for service. We are fortunate to have him as a partner and to work alongside him. We are profoundly grateful for his support.  Thank you so much, Mark, for using your skills, abilities, and time to meet such a vital need.  

Photos of Youths in Sierra Leone with donated laptops: https://developafrica.smugmug.com/2024/Laptops-from-Computer-Equipment-For-Kids/n-4JWb64

Sylvester Renner
President
Develop Africa