From Kelowna to Uganda: Changing lives one book at a time

From Kelowna to Uganda: Changing lives one book at a time

Published 12:30 pm Tuesday, June 9, 2026

The Niteo Africa Society is getting ready to ship more than 35,000 books to children in Uganda.

​Based in Kelowna, this local book drive aims to help thousands of children improve their reading skills with second-hand books.

​“We’re looking for gently used children’s books,” said executive director Antonia De Boer. “It’s a chance to make a small difference, but in a way that will have a ripple effect for the lives of thousands of children in Uganda.”

​De Boer says it can be difficult for Canadians to imagine what it would be like to learn to read without access to books or a library, which is a reality for many children overseas.

​Niteo works with Ugandan-led partner organizations to help distribute these books across Uganda, in communities like Kampala.

​According to De Boer, last year’s shipment helped more than 27,500 children in Uganda have access to the books they need to continue learning.

​She says they often purchase books in Uganda to support local publishers but that the demand for books exceeds what is currently available to Ugandans.

​“English books are needed as Uganda’s education system is in English. In order for students to complete their primary education, they need to be able to write a national exam, which is fully in English,” explained De Boer.

​Niteo accepts new or gently used children’s books, including both picture books and chapter books. Donated books cannot contain excessive violence or sexuality, and should not be about Canadian history.

​Those interested in donating can email the organization at info@niteo.org to set up a pickup or drop-off.

​Since 2007, the charity has sent 10 other sea-can containers filled with hundreds of thousands of books.