In a significant stride towards addressing South Africa's pressing literacy challenges, the Zimbali Estate Foundation proudly handed over a state-of-the-art mobile library to Sandfields Primary School in Tongaat yesterday. This philanthropic initiative aims to combat the alarming statistic that 81% of grade 4 learners in South Africa currently struggle to read for meaning.

The momentous event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including the Directors of the Zimbali Estate Foundation and representatives from the Department of Education KwaZulu-Natal, who have pledged their support for proper training and ensuring the efficient utilization of the newly inaugurated library.

John Allan, Chairman of the Zimbali Estate Foundation, emphasized the pivotal role that access to books plays in fostering a more literate nation. He stated, "Access to books is key in having a more literate nation. It is therefore crucial that we promote reading in schools, especially as access to reading material is fundamental to improving literacy, and we do hope that this will help to boost the literacy rate at the school."

Mr R.Singh, Principal of Sandfields Primary School, was delighted that his school was chosen by the Zimbali Estate Foundation. Singh advised that there was a huge focus on literacy at the school and the Educators at Sandfields Primary had already started several programmes to improve the literacy rate at the school and the new library will go a long way towards addressing this need

This noble project was coordinated by the Yusuf Karodia Foundation, known for its dedication to the "Million Books Campaign." The "Million Books Campaign" is a nationwide endeavour focused on distributing a million books to previously disadvantaged learners across South Africa, with the ultimate goal of fostering a culture of reading and improving literacy outcomes.

The mobile library handed over to Sandfields Primary School represents a significant step forward in the broader efforts to enhance literacy among South Africa's youth. It is anticipated that this library will serve as a beacon of knowledge and inspiration, equipping young learners with the resources they need to thrive academically and in life.