Imagine growing up in a world where every storybook you see is in a language you barely understand. The characters don’t speak like you, the stories don’t feel familiar, and reading feels more like a chore than a joy. For millions of South African children, this is their reality.
At Biblionef South Africa, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn to read and love reading in the language they speak at home. That is why we are passionate about ensuring that children’s books are available in the indigenous South African languages.
Why Mother-Tongue Reading Matters
Research shows that children learn to read faster and understand better when they start with books in their home language. When children see words they already know, they make connections more easily and gain confidence in their reading ability. This strong foundation makes it much easier for them to learn new and complex concepts in a second language when they start school.
But when children are forced to read in a language they do not fully understand, learning can become frustrating. Instead of enjoying the story, they struggle with each word, trying to piece together meaning. Many children fall behind in school simply because they have never been given the chance to learn in the language they know best.
The South African Reality
Sadly, storybooks in South Africa’s indigenous languages are often hard to find. Many publishers do not produce them because they believe there is no market. Bookstores and libraries are filled with books in English and Afrikaans, while children who speak isiXhosa, Sesotho, Tshivenda, or other indigenous languages have little to read. This lack of representation sends a message, intended or not, that their languages and cultures are unimportant.
Biblionef South Africa is working to change this. We provide new, high-quality books in 11 South African languages to children across the country, especially in rural areas where access to home language books is limited. We also train foundation phase teachers to use these books effectively in classrooms, making reading an exciting and interactive experience.
A Call to Action
On International Mother Language Day, let us recognise the importance of giving children books in the languages they speak at home. Language is more than just communication; it is related to identity, culture, and belonging. All children deserve to see their language celebrated in the pages of a book.
By supporting mother-tongue reading, we are not just teaching children to read. We are showing them that their voices, stories, and heritage matter. And that is a gift that lasts a lifetime.