A conversation at the Rotary Club of Waterfront’s 2025 National Women’s Day celebration has grown into a meaningful investment in children’s learning. On Thursday, 15 October 2026, the Amafu Library was officially opened at Prestwich Street Primary School, creating a new space for learners to explore, discover and develop a lifelong love of reading.

The opening of the Amafu Library represents more than the addition of books and learning resources to a school. It is a reminder of the importance of investing in literacy, curiosity and critical thinking at a time when children are growing up in an increasingly digital and AI-driven world.

Speaking on behalf of the Rotary Club of Waterfront, Mymoena Ismail reflected on why libraries remain essential as society moves from the Digital Age into the AI Age.

Why Libraries Matter More Than Ever

While closing the digital divide remains important, access to technology alone is no longer enough. Children also need the critical thinking skills, curiosity and confidence to question information, distinguish facts from misinformation, use technology responsibly and adapt to a rapidly changing world.

Libraries provide an essential foundation for this learning. They open doors to knowledge, encourage exploration and help children discover possibilities they may never have imagined.

As Mymoena emphasised, preparing children for the future requires partnerships between schools, foundations, businesses, service organisations and communities. No single organisation can achieve this alone.

The Amafu Library is a practical example of what can happen when people come together around a shared purpose.

A Library Named by the Children

In his address, Principal Mahdi Samodien described the new school library and media hub as:

“More than just a room filled with books – it is a launchpad for our children’s dreams.”

The learners themselves chose the name Amafu, meaning clouds. Within Nguni linguistic and cultural symbolism, clouds can represent renewal, emotional depth and ancestral presence.

The name gives the library an identity chosen by the children it is intended to serve – a fitting reflection of a space designed to nurture their imagination, aspirations and potential.

The Power of Reading and Partnership

One of the most moving moments of the opening was the presentation of poems by five learners, each reflecting on the impact the new library had already made on them.

Their contributions offered a glimpse of what the library can mean beyond its shelves and resources: a place where children can find their voices, build confidence and develop a stronger sense of what is possible.

The Otto Foundation also played an important role in the library’s journey. Frouwien Bosman, CEO of the Otto Foundation, shared the story behind its library work, while Julia Norrish, the Foundation’s Advocacy Director, spoke about the importance of Reading for Joy.

The school acknowledged the Foundation’s contribution with a certificate of recognition and appreciation, presented by Principal Samodien to Frouwien Bosman.

The opening brought together representatives of the school, the Otto Foundation, the Rotary Club of Waterfront and other supporters – a demonstration of the collective effort required to create meaningful educational opportunities.

Investing in Children’s Futures

The true impact of the Amafu Library will not be measured simply by its opening day. It will be reflected in the children who discover new interests, develop confidence, strengthen their reading skills and begin to imagine their futures differently.

As Mymoena reminded those present:

“The question is not whether our children have talent or potential. The question is whether we are prepared to create the conditions in which that talent and potential can flourish.”

The Rotary Club of Waterfront is proud to be part of this journey. Through partnerships and investments in literacy and education, we want to help children do more than face the future – we want to help equip them to shape it.

Because every child deserves the opportunity to discover what is possible. 📚