When I was growing up in the late 1980s and early 1990s, life was starkly different from what it is today. In the townships, households with electricity and a television set were a rarity; a luxury only enjoyed by a privileged few. Further, community libraries and books in homes were practically unheard of. For many, radio was the only medium of news and entertainment...

This month Nal’ibali – South Africa’s reading-for-enjoyment campaign – is launching a Siswati edition of its popular bilingual newspaper story supplement for children and their caregivers. Previously available in eight different official-language combinations, the new addition of Siswati is part of Nal’ibali’s vision to ensure that every child in South Africa has access to good-quality leisure-reading materials in their mother tongue. “Stories help develop children’s...

Xhakaza is an avid educationalist and has committed her life to solving complex social problems. She believes education is one of the most powerful ways through which people can be uplifted from poverty. Having recently completed her MBA from the University of Pretoria's business school, Gordon Institute of Business Science, Xhakaza is excited to use business principles to solve social problems. She joins Nal’ibali –...

With schools and preschools closed, and families spending more time at home to help slow the spread of the coronavirus, many caregivers will be wondering what they can do to keep their children occupied, entertained and learning. To help them, Nal’ibali – the national reading-for-enjoyment campaign – has put together a free support package with story and activity guides, audio and written stories and...