The Funda Mzansi Reading Festivalis a joint initiative between the Department of Correctional Services and the National Library of South Africa. It aims to improve the reading habits of South Africans by instilling the love of reading within communities. This includes improving book reviewing techniques and harnessing the ability to publicly engage in a debate.
The competition is targeted at clubs existing in correctional facilities, university book clubs, school book clubs as well as community book clubs. The main objectives of the competition are: to enhance the value chain in writing, publishing and reading in South African official languages, building creative minds through reading in all official languages as well as to stimulate, encourage and activate reading on a continuous basis.
Being directed by Sinekhaya Tyanase, the programme started at 9:00 am with opening devotions by Reverend Gora. The director of Community and Social Services welcomed all the guests present followed by Ms. Wakaba who detailed the purpose of the day. Thereafter, the activities of the day followed.
The languages used were Afrikaans, English and IsiXhosa. They commenced with reading activities, followed by book reviews then debate and ultimately the spelling bee. After an intermission, adjudicators offered some remarks. Mrs Nciweni then announced the Top 5 winnners followed by Mr Makwethu detailing the Funda Mzansi Approach. Mrs Njilo then did the vote of thanks and later refreshments were served.
We thank the responsible personnel for such a fruitful joint initiative.