Africa Update

Memory and Mirriam, two of our stronger readers, working with the young women during a reading session

Dozens of community members, both children and adults, are participating in a program launched a couple of months ago called “English Buddies,” in which stronger English speakers are paired with others who need more support in learning the language.

Theresa reports that participants are starting to have fun practicing, greeting one another in the morning and narrating their activities to each other. The more everyone practices, the more willing they are to try! Early on, anyone who spoke incorrectly would become very shy. But now, Theresa says, that shyness is going away.

A new reading culture at the property is really helping to boost English skills. Those whose English isn't as strong are starting out with entry-level reading books. They first read the books aloud with someone who is a stronger reader. Once the learner can get through an entire page correctly, they read it silently — and then continue on until they've completed a whole book and are ready to move on to the next one. Some adults are learning to read for the first time!

Sangha supplied much of the reading material, which was carried to the property over the years in suitcases stuffed with books generously donated. And Zambia has its own learning-to-read series much like our own Dick and Jane books, called Jelita and Mulenga.

Angela and Mary reading together