Call for More Books to Boost Literacy in Zimbabwe
A strong call has been made for increased supply and purchase of reading books and textbooks for schools and libraries in Zimbabwe. Speakers at the Harare City Library said improving access to books is the only sustainable way to build literacy and strengthen education.
The remarks came during the celebration of Book Aid International’s latest donation of books to Zimbabwean schools. Harare City Library vice-chairperson Matthew Chandaengerwa, who was the guest of honour, praised the organisation for supporting reading initiatives across the country.
“They are really reaffirming your efforts and applauding you for what you’re doing. We want to thank Book Aid International and its local partners for confirming the work that we are doing,” Chandaengerwa said.
He said reading remains one of the most powerful tools for intellectual and emotional growth. He urged parents and teachers to help children develop reading habits early, saying books can inspire problem-solving and visionary thinking.
Eresina Hwede, information and communications officer for IBBY Zimbabwe Section, shared how her organisation promotes reading through collaboration and innovation. She explained that IBBY focuses on distributing books to primary schools, with support from international partners.
Over the years, IBBY has led creative projects such as recording children’s stories on CDs, producing illustrated one-page story sheets, and adapting local tales into radio dramas. Hwede added that in 2024, IBBY hosted a workshop on writing for children, which produced a training module now available to aspiring authors.
IBBY Zimbabwe vice-chairperson Greenfield Chilongo gave an engaging talk that combined humour and deep reflection. He recalled how the Harare City Library shaped his academic journey during his A’ Level studies and celebrated its role as a pillar of education.
Chilongo outlined ten reasons why reading should be a lifelong habit. These included mental stimulation, stress reduction, knowledge growth, and vocabulary expansion. “The more you read, the more you learn, the more information you have,” he said. “Reading inspires you to get more knowledge, which you retain and use in your daily life.”
IBBY Zimbabwe chairperson Virginia Phiri emphasized that cultivating a reading culture should start as early as age three. She said drawing and visual storytelling are often a child’s first creative experiences and form the foundation for reading.
Phiri urged publishers, booksellers, and policymakers to make books affordable and accessible for all. She said reading should not only be a priority for schoolchildren but also for adults seeking lifelong learning.
The event also featured performances that celebrated literature and creativity. Actor and novelist Tinashe Muchuri performed a lively whistling poem that delighted the audience. Schoolchildren took part in poetry recitals and dramatic readings, bringing energy and joy to the celebration.
The programme opened with remarks from Harare City Library human resources officer Stima, who described the library as a community-owned treasure. She encouraged parents, educators, and partners to help sustain its mission of promoting literacy.
Other speakers included author and academic Memory Chirere, Consultus Publishing Services CEO Mwazvita Patricia Madondo, and College Press managing director Natsai Gurira. They all stressed that reading, book ownership, and knowledge sharing are key drivers of personal and national development.
The event closed with renewed commitment from all stakeholders to expand access to books and strengthen Zimbabwe’s reading culture.
