Do More Foundation promotes reading culture in Nkomazi

RCL Food’s Do More Foundation has set a target for itself to reach 1 574 more parents in this region through its Read and Play at Home programme.

This multipartner programme emphasises the importance of integrating locally relevant language and cultural context into early learning resources, specifically reading and picture books.

According to the Nkomazi programme leader, Jabu Mthembu-Dlamini, building strong connections between early child development practitioners, parents and young children is the main aim. “In September, we ran an intensive programme in Nkomazi, and this was mainly to shine the spotlight on the parents and the important role they play in cultivating their young children’s love of reading with books that celebrate their language, culture and heritage. Our purpose is to empowering parents as much as possible as primary caregivers in early learning and development,” said Mthembu-Dlamini.

The Read and Play at Home programme has reached 2 235 parents in Nkomazi from 2022 until September this year, providing them the necessary training, support and resources to start their own reading corner at home. This has been the result of a collaboration between the Do More Foundation, Book Dash, Lulamaphiko and the Institute of Training and Education for Capacity-building. The next programme target in Nkomazi is to reach 1 574 more parents by the end of 2024.

“The parents have a profound impact on their child’s early development by dedicating time each day to read with them. The Read and Play at Home programme supports this by incorporating the family’s primary and secondary languages and culturally relevant stories. This approach not only promotes cognitive and linguistic development, but also strengthens identity, empathy and academic success. Through such initiatives, parents can help their children flourish in a diverse and interconnected world,” added Mthembu-Dlamini.

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Nomthandazo Mashele, a parent participant in the programme, has already started experiencing several positive impacts from it.

“My child can relate to the everyday experiences described in the books, like eating and playing with friends. She now shares educational moments and initiates conversations about the stories we read together. The Read and Play at Home programme has strengthened our relationship, opening new ways for us to connect. This shared learning experience has deepened our bond and broadened our communication.”