Zimbabwe Rural Schools Library Trust Wins Global Literacy Award

Zimbabwe Rural Schools Library Trust (Image Source)

The Zimbabwe Rural Schools Library Trust (ZRSLT) has won the Best Literary Development Initiative Award from Acquisition International, in recognition of its decade-long efforts to transform education in rural communities.

Founded in 2012, the Trust has delivered books to more than 100 schools, built libraries, and pushed for policy reform to strengthen Zimbabwe’s under-resourced education sector. Its landmark publication, Uniting the World for Rural School Library Development, was a decisive factor in securing the award.

“Getting people who benefited giving testimonies proves beyond a reasonable doubt that we are on course to do greater things,” said Dr. Josiline Chigwada, Chairperson of the Trust’s Zimbabwe chapter.

Edited by Dr. Eric Boamah, the award-winning book compiles stories from Zimbabwean leaders, educators, and grassroots activists. Initiatives like the Know Your Roots campaign—which encouraged alumni to return to their schools and build libraries—were highlighted as transformative. Beyond books, the Trust has supported orphaned students, released a music album to promote literacy, and engaged senior government officials to push for the adoption of a national library policy.

The recognition was celebrated both at home and abroad. In Zimbabwe, Education Minister Dr. Torerayi Moyo praised the achievement, while in Australia, Deputy Mayor Deborah Sessions commended the Trust’s global impact. The book is available locally in hard copy and internationally through Amazon.

“This recognition validates the power of grassroots education reform,” said Professor Tinashe Mugwisi, who wrote the foreword. “It’s a model for literacy development across Africa.”

The Trust’s work illustrates how small-scale interventions can deliver wide-ranging impact, from improved literacy rates to strengthened community ownership of schools.

For many rural children, the Trust’s efforts mean their first direct access to books, libraries, and digital learning tools. For Zimbabwe, it signals a brighter educational future rooted in community action and global recognition.