Why Literacy Matters: The First Step Toward Lifelong Learning
By Renée Jones | Board Member, Tanzania Development Support
This article was authored by Renée Jones, in her role as a Board Member of Tanzania Development Support (TDS). Red Hills Consulting Group is proud to support education equity and community-driven development.
In communities around the world, the ability to read and write is often taken for granted. Yet for many children in rural Tanzania—and in countless underserved regions globally—literacy is not a given. It is a life-altering milestone: the first step on the path to lifelong learning, economic empowerment, and social mobility.
Literacy Is the Gateway
Literacy is the first academic skill children must master, but its importance goes far beyond the classroom. A literate child becomes a confident learner. A literate girl is better equipped to understand her rights, navigate systems, and make informed decisions. A literate parent is more likely to support their child’s education, prioritize healthcare, and build economic stability for their family.
In essence: literacy unlocks everything.
In rural Tanzania, education can be a lifeline—but for most children, especially girls, it’s a path filled with barriers. Literacy is the first and most fundamental step on that path. Without the ability to read, students are locked out of every future opportunity—academic success, career mobility, civic participation, and more.
That’s why Tanzania Development Support (TDS)has made literacy a cornerstone of our work in the Mara region. From early reading programs to community-led Reading Circles, we are investing in the power of books to open minds and change lives.
“Reading is the fundamental tool of learning in the 21st century… whether it’s a book, a street sign, a grocery label, or a screen on the internet. Effective reading is the key to learning and understanding the world around us.”
📚 A “Center for Learning” in Rural Tanzania
The Madaraka Nyerere Library and Community Resource Center (LCRC) stands as a beacon of knowledge for the villages in the Musoma Rural area. Envisioned by community leaders as a kituo cha maarifa (“center for learning”), the LCRC houses one of the largest collections of books by African authors in Swahili in any community library in the country.
Since its construction in 2016, the LCRC has evolved into a hub for educational innovation. In 2019, we expanded its infrastructure with internet connectivity and open-source digital library tools, enabling access to global learning even in areas without power.
Yet the heart of this work is not the technology—it’s the people and programs.
📖 Reading Circles: Building a Culture of Literacy
Launched in April 2025, Reading Circles are one of the LCRC’s most vibrant literacy efforts. These community-led sessions bring students, teachers, and volunteers together to read aloud, ask questions, and share stories.
Each week, children gather across Musoma Rural—under mango trees and in classrooms—to experience the joy of books.
“Just seeing these photos made my heart sing. I truly believe this experience is going to change students’ lives and transform education in this part of the world!” — Dr. Andrea Trudeau, TDS Board Member
Thanks to Andrea’s leadership and a generous $2,000 fundraising effort, hundreds of children now benefit from this program. Special thanks to Joyce, Moses, and Fr. Otieno, who are leading efforts on the ground.
“Creating a reading culture in Musoma Rural schools and villages will pay dividends for generations to come.”
👶 Early Literacy: Laying the Foundation
Alongside Reading Circles, the LCRC runs two early reading programs that collectively reach over 100 children annually:
Pre-Primary Reading Program (ages 3–5): A half-day experience introducing numbers, letters, and storytelling.
Early Reading Program: In partnership with Nyegina Primary School, this supports children who need additional help with reading.
Together, these programs build skills, spark curiosity, and nurture confidence.
💡 Literacy Is Power
In a world where access to information defines opportunity, literacy is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. For the students of Musoma Rural, it’s the bridge to a future where they can lead, contribute, and thrive.
At TDS, we believe literacy transforms lives. And we thank every teacher, volunteer, donor, and advocate helping us turn this belief into action.
About Renée Renée Jones is the Founder and Principal Consultant at Red Hills Consulting Group, where she leads strategic, operational, and transformational initiatives for Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and mission-driven organizations. With more than 20 years of experience leading complex initiatives, Renée helps organizations turn bold ideas into lasting impact. Outside of work, she mentors emerging leaders and champions social-impact innovation. https://redhillsconsultinggroup.com
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