The National Library of South Africa (NLSA), in partnership with the Mpumalanga Provincial Government, hosted the launch of World Read Aloud Day (WRAD) on Wednesday, 4 February, at Matsamo Community Hall, under the theme: Celebrate Learning: What Are You Reading?

The purpose of World Read Aloud Day is to promote a reading culture by showcasing the value of reading aloud as a key driver of literacy development. The event was aimed at inspiring communities to embrace reading as an everyday practice and to highlight the important role played by families, schools, libraries, and cultural institutions in nurturing lifelong learning.

The World Read Aloud Day 2026 celebrations started off at Lugebhuta Secondary School in Schoemansdal, Ka-Matsamo, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. The NLSA formed part of the school’s official WRAD programme and participated in the official flag hoisting ceremony. As part of the celebrations, the NLSA donated books to the Lugebhuta Secondary School. The school has 1500 students who actively participate in public speaking and reading promotion programmes.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Marcus Maphile, Director: Public Engagement at the NLSA, emphasised the transformative power of reading. “World Read Aloud Day is more than a celebration; it is a call to action. When we read aloud, we unlock imagination, strengthen comprehension, and build confident, lifelong learners. Through partnerships like these, we are donating books and investing in the future of our children and communities.”

The event concluded with renewed commitment from all stakeholders to continue advancing literacy and ensuring equitable access to reading materials across South Africa. Through initiatives such as World Read Aloud Day, the NLSA continues to champion its mandate of promoting a nation of readers and preserving the country’s rich knowledge heritage.