Sisters Read

Sisters Read

In 2016, a TWWP survey revealed a painful truth: across many schools in Tharaka, shelves stood empty, storybooks were absent, and the joy of reading was fading from children’s hands. In communities where families often had to prioritize food, water, and work, storybooks were seen as a luxury rather than the lifeline they truly are. Sisters Read was born from a vision to put books back into children’s hands and restore the magic of learning for lower-grade learners across Tharaka North.

What the Program Provides

Storybooks — TWWP has distributed over 22,000 books to schools across Tharaka North sub-county
Solar lanterns — recognizing that access to books means little once darkness falls, TWWP has distributed over 750 solar lanterns, allowing children to read both at school and at home, even in off-grid locations
Child Molding Clubs (CMCs) — safe, gender-grouped spaces within schools where children borrow books through remote libraries, practice reading aloud, and take part in guided discussions on respect, leadership, and social responsibility

Our Sisters Read: Remediation Support

In 2023, a Ministry of Education assessment of Grade Three students in Tharaka North found that about 62% of learners were lagging behind in reading and literacy. With support from USAID, Sisters Read evolved into Our Sisters Read, adding targeted Remediation Support for Grade Three learners struggling to reach critical reading milestones focusing on non-readers and those still at the letter level, aligned with the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

The remediation model started in just 2 pilot schools and expanded to 24 schools. Teachers also received specialized training on the Early Grade Approach to strengthen early-grade teaching methods.

Our Impact

Over 11,000 learners reached across 62 primary schools
22,000+ books distributed
750+ solar lanterns distributed to support home-based reading
Word reading proficiency among remediation-support learners improved from 38% to 93%
Over 850 learners have benefited from the Remediation Support program
5,725 learners engaged through Child Molding Clubs
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About Us

Founded in 1996 as Ntanira Na Mugambo (Circumcision with Words), Tharaka Women Welfare Programme pioneered Kenya’s first Alternative Rite of Passage, proving that communities can preserve culture while protecting the rights, health, and future of girls. 

Today, TWWP empowers women and children through education, literacy, digital skills, and sustainable livelihoods.