New School Library Opens at Rahmaniyeh Primary School in District Six

Press Release: 6 March 2025

The Rahmaniyeh Primary School community celebrated the opening of the Rahmah Library on 6 March 2025, a milestone in the promotion of literacy and reading for enjoyment in District Six.

This new library is the result of a collaborative effort between the Rotary Club of Newlands, The MAAK, and the Otto Foundation, with support from a network of donors, including Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, Stonehage Fleming, the Kamvalethu Foundation, the MacFarlane Family Foundation, Corobrik, Biblionef South Africa, and generous family trusts.

Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis and Rahmaniyeh Primary School Principal Shireen Jaffer cutting the ribbon

"We are deeply committed to empowering local communities through education and delighted to have had the opportunity to play a role in enhancing the District Six community with the Rahmah Library project. Our philosophy of giving, and the funding such facilities, is for the donation to have maximum impact on the community it serves and making a difference that matters. The Rahmah Library is proof of that philosophy".

Priscilla Urquhart - Head of Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability at Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages

The official opening was attended by the Executive Mayor of the City of Cape Town, Geordin Hill-Lewis, who delivered a keynote address emphasizing the City’s commitment to working with civil society organisations to achieve its objectives – particularly the goal of creating a City of Hope where people can see their hopes of a better future for themselves, their children and their communities become a reality.

With research showing that reading for enjoyment is a key factor in academic success, the Rahmah Library will offer more than just books. A full-time librarian, a structured library programme, and a calendar of engaging literacy events - including author readings, book review competitions, an annual book quiz and reading relay, and storytelling by reading role models from the community - will nourish the reading culture in the school. The Otto Foundation’s long-term commitment to the project will ensure that the library remains a dynamic hub of learning and exploration for years to come. The Rahmah Library is the Otto Foundation’s eight library project in the area.

"School libraries are essential in bridging the literacy gap in South Africa. By providing children with access to books and fostering a reading culture, we are investing in their future and empowering them with the skills they need to succeed."

Zephne Ladbrook – Chairperson and Co-Founder of the Otto Foundation

The design and construction process was approached with sensitivity to the history and heritage of District Six, even incorporating clay from the site into the bricks used to build the library. Additionally, the project prioritized sourcing materials and equipment from local businesses, fostering economic growth in Cape Town.

The architectural design of the library was led by The MAAK, an award-winning spatial practice specializing in social impact architecture. Their expertise ensured that the library is a beautiful, functional space that supports both learning and community engagement.

“The MAAK is proud to be part of delivering another noteworthy social impact initiative. The Rahmah Library is a successful example of world-class public infrastructure realised in partnership with private and corporate funding. Projects like these provide inspiring architectural environments to those that need them the most. We can’t wait to see this amazing building full of books and many happy learners!”

Ashleigh Killa – The MAAK  

Grade 3 learners delivering a poem about their library

The Rotary Club of Newlands played a pivotal role in mobilizing funding for the construction and managing the building process, reinforcing their 20 year commitment to sustainable social infrastructure projects in the Western Cape.

In addition, Mzansi Organics and SUGi have created a pocket forest behind the library, designed to become a space for outdoor learning. This green oasis will provide learners with an interactive environment to explore nature, fostering environmental awareness and a deeper connection to the world around them.

The name "Rahmah" is derived from Arabic, meaning mercy, compassion, and kindness. In Islamic tradition, it represents divine concern for humanity. We believe that the Rahmah Library embodies this principle by serving as a nurturing space where children are given the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

For more information about the Otto Foundation visit www.ottofoundation.org.