In its continued mission to help children in rural Limpopo continue their reading journey long after the sun sets, the Light to Read NGO delivered hope in the form of 1,600 solar lights in areas with limited to no electricity.
Limpopo, South Africa (19 November 2025) – For many youngsters hailing from some of the most rural and remote parts of our country, light is mainly experienced in the form of daylight or a burning candle. Most evenings, homework, projects and reading are done against a small, flickering flame.
Striving to change this reality since 2016, the Light to Read NGO has been delivering solar lights to learners in rural Limpopo to help them continue their reading journey long after the sun sets.
This month, the project delivered a further 1,600 to learners in need, and despite challenging inclement weather, the handover events were all a success.
Smiles and excitement filled the air as children received their much-needed solar lights – lights that are especially meaningful in areas with limited to no electricity to allow young learners to read, study and dream.
“For many of the learners we reach, a solar light becomes a tool for possibility, a source of hope. The difference between struggling in the dark and having a fair chance to learn, dream, and grow,” shares Light to Read co-founder Diane Kelway.”
Head of Senopelwa School, Headmistress Jane Mogale, shared that since the distribution of these lights, she’s witnessed a remarkable and positive shift in her learners’ academic lives.
“Teachers have noted a visible increase in the quality and consistency of the home activities being completed. The solar lights have empowered our learners, creating an environment where learning is prioritised, even after school hours. This support system has been instrumental in the noticeable improvement in their learning outcomes across various subjects.”
But the impact doesn’t end with the child; the light transforms the entire household. Families cook, clean, study, and stay safe at night. Parents have shared that the solar light brings order into the home, while teachers have opened up about how it brings progress into the classroom.
“That’s why we do what we do, because a single light can illuminate far more than a room. It can illuminate a future,” Diane says.
Chris and Diane Kelway identify schools and areas in need of solar lights through a thoughtful, community-focused approach, prioritising schools with strong leadership and a demonstrated commitment to learning, which will also help sustain the initiative.
“Over time, we’ve learned that although the light is given to a learner, it becomes a vital resource for the entire household. Because rural communities often have very limited access to electricity and basic infrastructure, our focus has naturally shifted toward schools in rural South Africa, where the impact is most meaningful,” Diane explains.
They select durable, high-quality solar lights that support long-term use for both learners and their families. Many lights they distributed back in 2016 are still in use today, reinforcing the importance of choosing robust products that can truly change daily life.
Teachers also receive solar lights. This allows them to complete marking, prepare lessons, and support students after hours. Ultimately, giving them the tools to strengthen the entire learning environment.
Reflecting on the recent handover, which benefited a total of five schools, Diane said the appreciation and excitement from the children was electric.
“The gratitude expressed to us by the community and educators inspires us to continue with our efforts. The rainy day reminded us of the resilience and determination these children and their families have. Their enthusiasm reinforced our belief that we are doing the right thing, and the Light to Read NGO is making a difference.”
Light to Read’s goal over the next three years is to reach as many young learners as possible – a mission that is only achievable thanks to the generous support of its partners and sponsors who share the belief in the transformative power of primary education.
Sources: Diane Kelway
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