Overview

The Read To The World Project is the flagship literacy and local literature initiative of Zambian ARTS Publishing House. It was established to increase access to quality books while empowering local writers through affordable publishing opportunities and strategic book distribution.

At the heart of the project is a bold commitment to publish and distribute 100,000 books by 2030, with the majority of these being locally written and published works. We believe that every community deserves access to books that reflect its people, cultures, languages, experiences, and aspirations.

Despite the growing demand for books across Zambia, many schools, libraries, orphanages, and community learning spaces continue to face limited access to relevant and affordable reading materials. At the same time, many talented writers struggle to publish their work because of financial barriers. The Read To The World Project addresses both challenges by making publishing more accessible while ensuring that books reach the readers who need them most.

Through the Project Publishing Sponsorship Programme, eligible authors can receive up to 50% sponsorship on selected publishing packages, helping transform quality manuscripts into professionally published books. In return, these books become part of a growing movement to strengthen literacy, celebrate local storytelling, and inspire future generations.

Books published and distributed through the Read To The World Project will reach:

• Schools

• Public and community libraries

• Orphanages and children’s homes

• Community reading clubs

• Youth centres

• Healthcare facilities

• Correctional facilities

• Literacy programmes

• Community outreach initiatives

Beyond increasing access to books, the project seeks to preserve Zambia’s literary heritage, encourage a culture of reading, support the growth of the publishing industry, and provide local writers with opportunities to share their knowledge, creativity, and lived experiences with readers across the country and beyond.

Our Goal

To publish and distribute 100,000 books by 2030, empowering local authors and improving access to quality reading materials in schools, libraries, and communities throughout Zambia.

Our Vision

A Zambia where every child, young person, and community has access to inspiring, high-quality books, and where local writers are empowered to tell the stories that shape our nation’s future.

Our Mission

To promote literacy, strengthen local literature, support emerging and established authors, and expand access to affordable, locally relevant books through sustainable publishing partnerships and nationwide distribution initiatives.

Our Core Objectives

• Publish and distribute 100,000 books by 2030.

• Promote locally authored books and preserve Zambia’s literary heritage.

• Reduce financial barriers to publishing through sponsorship opportunities.

• Improve access to quality books in schools, libraries, and underserved communities.

• Encourage a lifelong reading culture among children, youth, and adults.

• Build partnerships with schools, libraries, organisations, businesses, and development partners to expand literacy initiatives across Zambia.

Supporting the Sustainable Development Goals

The Read To The World Project contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:

• SDG 4 – Quality Education

• SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth

• SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities

• SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities

• SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals

Together, we are building a future where local stories are written, published, shared, and celebrated, one book at a time.