Our project in the year 2026: The primary school in Walmer Township, South Africa

This year, we are running to support the construction of a community hall for Walmer Primary School in the township of the same name near Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) in South Africa. The children who attend this school grow up in a highly disadvantaged neighborhood facing existential challenges. Together with our South African project partner Masifunde, we aim to create a positive learning environment in this socially difficult context—one that enables holistic, high‑quality education.
Eine 3D-Abbildung zeigt die geplante Gemeinschaftshalle an der Grundschule im Walmer Township
Eine 3D-Abbildung zeigt die geplante Gemeinschaftshalle an der Grundschule im Walmer Township
A 3D rendering of the planned community hall at Walmer Primary School.

To make this possible, the school will undergo a fundamental transformation. The current state of the school does not invite learning; the surroundings resemble a dumping ground. In addition, the school lacks an assembly hall and classrooms. The planned hall will provide space for school assemblies, sports, and cultural activities—helping to strengthen community spirit, motivation, and interactive learning. The people from the neighborhood will also be able to use the hall, creating a strong connection between the school and the township. The local city administration is supporting the project with infrastructure measures.

Specifically, this is where your donations will go: 

👉  Construction of a community hall at Walmer Primary Schoo

👉  Space for school assemblies, sports, and cultural activities

👉  Enhancement of the entire school grounds

👉  Start construction in the autumn of 2026

Why do we support this project? 

The planned community hall will enhance the school as a holistic, motivating and welcoming place of learning. It will offer space for school assemblies, sports, and cultural activities. The residents of the Walmer Township will also be able to use the hall, creating a close connection between the school and the local community.

Learn more about the school at A School in Africa on the website of the Umckaloabo foundation.

Our project partner
Jonas Schumacher, Mitbegründer und Leiter des Bildungszentrums Masifunde

The non-profit organisation Masifunde has been running an education centre for children and young people in the Walmer Township since 2004: In 2025, its Montessori daycare centre opened. In afternoon courses, children can explore and develop their creative potential through music, art, and theatre workshops. Young people can build professional skills in IT courses or complete vocational training.

Masifunde actively involves the residents of the township in its activities and therefore enjoys a high level of acceptance. Primary school learners can also take part in the creative and academic programmes of the Changemaker Academy without having to travel long distances. A wonderful exchange that benefits both sides.

Walmer Township in South Africa 

Walmer Township near Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) has around 40,000 residents and is one of the highly disadvantaged areas of South Africa, where people are confronted with existential challenges on a daily basis. Increasing migration from poorer neighbouring countries further intensifies these pressures.

There is still significant inequality within the South African education system. Schools in underprivileged Black communities such as Walmer Township are often underfunded and inadequately equipped. This directly affects children’s academic performance and their future opportunities. More than 50% of young people in Walmer Township drop out of school before completing their education, and youth unemployment  is around 65%.

Note: If Africa Runners raise more donations with their runs than are needed for the implementation of the project, these donations will be invested in comparable educational projects in the project region.