IT takes a village to raise a child!
This is the idea behind the Pizza Hut African Literacy Project to ensure children get the best education.
The campaign, which has been ongoing for more than 30 years, was first introduced to Mzansi last month.
But it is now travelling all over Africa to get more kids to read and love books.
Dubbed the “Slice of Africa”, the project takes is taking place in 14 cities in 12 African countries.
It is in partnership with the READ Educational Trust, an NGO which delivers literacy resources and tools such as games, puzzles, quizzes and stories to children in each country.
Ewan Davenport, Pizza Hut Africa’s general manager, said he and his team have travelled across the continent in 22 days to make sure as many kids get the chance to read as possible.
The project encourages literacy by providing reading resources bought by asking customers to donate a R2 while buying their pizza.
Ewan said so far, so good.
The project is going well as planned.
“We’ve shared the joy and power of literacy with children across Africa. We’re looking forward to seeing this initiative grow.”
He said because about 280 million people in Africa cannot read, this campaign has proven more relevant than ever.
Literacy and reading are real bridges to opportunity. The campaign focuses on using their growing restaurant footprint in Africa to make a difference in the communities they serve.
In each country, Pizza Hut has, through NGOs or schools, identified pupils who need help.
“We’ve seen the drive for donations really take shape, but we need more help from our customers to make this campaign really epic – not only in size but also in the scope of its impact.”