Abstract

Zimbabwe has for a long time been characterised by varied and skewed levels of literacy across her regions. This scenario has left some regions more advantaged and developed than others. Binga District in Matabeleland North, mainly habited by the Tonga speaking people has been one such community where underdevelopment has been tied to the low levels of literacy. It is in this light that this study therefore aimed to investigate the role of Tonga Language and Culture Committee (TOLACCO), Roman Catholic and Community leadership in the promotion of literacy in Binga Community of Zimbabwe. Data was collected from the TOLACCO, Roman Catholic Parishioners, District Administrator, Councillors and the community leaders who included two Chiefs and their Headman. Structured interview schedule and questionnaire were used in data collection. The results revealed that low literacy level tied to the cultural beliefs of the baTonga people has hindered human resources and infrastructure development within Binga. One Chief bemoaned the situation where pupils at primary school were being taught not in their mother language and some teachers from outside the region predominantly Ndebele and Shona speaking were not interested in learning the Tonga language. There is urgent need to upscale the production of teaching and learning material in Chitonga at both primary and secondary school levels. The results amplified the need for a multi-stakeholder approach in the promotion of high literacy levels in community development.

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