We are calling on writers, storytellers, educators, and community members across South Africa to submit original children’s stories in indigenous languages as part of its ongoing commitment to multilingual literacy and inclusive storytelling.
Story submissions will be open to the public from 15 May to 31 August 2026 in all South African languages, especially the following languages:
The initiative aims to expand access to quality children’s literature in indigenous languages, ensuring that more children can experience the joy of reading in languages they speak and understand at home.
South Africa’s linguistic diversity remains significantly underrepresented in children’s literature, despite evidence that children develop stronger literacy skills and deeper comprehension when they engage with stories in their mother tongue. Through this call, Nal’ibali seeks to grow a vibrant collection of locally rooted children’s stories while encouraging new and emerging voices in storytelling.
“We want children to see themselves, their languages, and their communities reflected in the stories they read. When children read in their home languages, they build confidence, deepen understanding, and develop a lifelong love for reading,” says Nosiphiwo Sifumba, Project Lead.
Sifumba adds that the initiative is also about widening participation in storytelling: “We are inviting both experienced and emerging writers to contribute stories that are imaginative, engaging, and grounded in children’s everyday realities. Every story shared helps build a stronger reading culture for all.”
Submission Guidelines
Stories must be original children’s stories written in all South African languages, especially the following languages:
Selected stories may be featured as part of Nal’ibali’s reading and literacy resources to support children’s reading for enjoyment across South Africa.
We encourage members of the public to take part in building a rich, accessible body of indigenous language children’s stories that celebrate South Africa’s cultural and linguistic heritage.
“This is more than a call for stories; it is an invitation to shape the stories children grow up with,” says Sifumba.
For media enquiries:
Thato Mahlangu
Communications, Events and Media Officer
Email: Thato.m@nalibali.org
Cell: +27 63 691 9688
