The community of Red Hill in the South Peninsula of Cape Town is celebrating the official opening of its new library and renovated community centre.

The brand new and fully-equipped library, computer centre, and community centre were officially opened at a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday.

Funded by Micato Safaris and its philanthropic arm, AmericaShare, the project partnered with the Red Hill Development Forum and Red Hill Literacy Project to establish a new library and computer centre.

Head of Department of Economic Development and Tourism, Provincial Government Western Cape Solly Fourie says he is delighted that tourism can be a catalyst for both economic growth and social empowerment within this region.

“It is very rewarding to celebrate the implementation of successful community projects such as these, against the backdrop of the popular tourism route to Cape Point. It is recognised that the community project will support the development of skills in the community and I support the development of this initiative for a mutually sustainable economic endeavour.”

Founder and executive director of Micato-America, Lorna Macleod says their outreach in East Africa has long inspired them to find a community in Southern Africa where they could have a lasting impact.

“When we first visited Red Hill last year, we knew we had found our place. We’re very excited about working with the people of Red Hill to provide educational resources such as this library.”

David Tyrrell, one of the founders of the Red Hill Literacy Project, believes the top of the range library and learning centre will have a great impact: “This will make a huge difference to the lives of all the Red Hill residents and enable them to achieve their educational objectives.”

The centre will also provide continued adult education and literacy development.