Thanks in part to your incredible support, we are thrilled to share a joyful milestone:  all 100,000 pencils have been successfully distributed to 20 schools across the Freetown municipality as part of Develop Africa’s Year of the Pencil initiative.

This achievement represents more than school supplies — it represents possibility, dignity, and the belief that every child deserves the tools to learn and thrive.

The campaign officially launched on November 20th at Regent Square School, in collaboration with the GEED Foundation and the Freetown City Council. The event marked a powerful step forward in our shared commitment to strengthening education for children in Sierra Leone.

626 pupils at Regent Square School received 10 pencils and a sharpener each, ensuring they have what they need to fully participate in their learning. In total, 10,000 schoolchildren will benefit from this distribution across Freetown.

See more photos at https://developafrica.smugmug.com/2025/Regent-Square-Municipal-Primary-School

We were honored to be joined by Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, who delivered inspiring remarks. She applauded the initiative and emphasized how timely and impactful the pencil distribution is in supporting the educational growth of the city’s children.

For many students in Sierra Leone, having their own pencil is not guaranteed. A simple tool can determine whether a child completes classwork, participates confidently, or excels academically.

Today, because of you, thousands of children now have the basic learning tools they need to succeed.

As we continue our commitment to empowering young learners, we invite you to stay connected and keep making a difference. Together, we are building a stronger foundation for education throughout Sierra Leone.

Thank you for your kindness, your belief in these children, and your partnership in creating brighter futures.