GROWING THE LOVE FOR STORIES & READING

We showed up, we read, and we celebrated. Nal’ibali joined the 32nd EC Provincial Freedom Day celebrations in Ndlambe Municipality, Alexandria (eMnyameni), thanks to the Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture. Freedom lives in every story told and every child who reads. Our mascot Mfundo and Dr Zakaza brought the energy, reminding us to cherish our identity through stories and keep access to reading growing. This is our story. This is our freedom.

A story shared is a gift that keeps giving. Thank you to children’s author Faith Maluleke for donating N’weti: Kokwani’s Surprise Party, a joyful story of family, love and togetherness. Through our reading clubs, Storytime sessions and community spaces, this story will come alive for children in fun, interactive ways. It reminds us to value our elders, cherish our roots, and hold onto the moments that matter. Reading together is how we pass on love, values and belonging. #Nalibali #BookDonation #AfricanStories #LiteracyForAll #ReadingChangesLives

We already know what works: children need books, joyful reading, and supported communities. Yet most homes still have few or no books, only a third of adults read regularly, and the system remains critically under-resourced. NGOs are holding the line every day, but they cannot do it alone. This is an urgent call to government, corporate South Africa, artists and creatives to step up now, invest in, and scale proven literacy work without delay. Every day we wait, another child is left behind. Every child deserves the freedom to read and to dream. #FundLiteracy #Nalibali #ReadingForEnjoyment #LiteracyForAll #ActNow

Be the example. South Africa’s history shaped access to books and education. That truth matters. But it cannot be the reason the cycle continues. The 2023 National Reading Barometer shows that regular book reading and access to books at home remain low. Our children are watching. If they do not see reading, they are less likely to choose it. If they do not hear stories, they are less likely to imagine beyond what they see. Start where you are. Read. Tell stories. Make time. Nal’ibali’s family literacy programmes and SEF literacy teams are here to support you. We cannot change the past. But we can choose what comes next. #LiteracyStartsAtHome #Nalibali #ReadingForEnjoyment #FamilyLiteracy #BeTheExample