African countries have some of the highest illiteracy rates in the world. Compared to the United States where 99% of the population age 15 and above is literate, the average literacy level in Sub-Saharan Africa is at 67%*, with some countries as low as 48% (Sierra Leone), or 58% (Gambia). The literacy levels among girls and women are even lower. Low literacy levels are linked to poverty, unemployment, and crime. Millions of African children do not have books at home or access to a library.
*Data from UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS). UIS.Stat Bulk Data Download Service, 2022.
BB’s Book Bus is a new TV show in which books will be read to young viewers at home. Our primary target audience is age 4-6, with a secondary target audience of caregivers and families.
A television reading show offers two opportunities: to simulate this in-person reading in millions of homes, and to create a culture of reading at home with caregivers.
As more and more children’s books become available in Sub-Saharan Africa, we also have the opportunity to platform African writers and to promote books by and about African audiences.
The first season (12 episodes) has been generously funded by Founders Pledge. We are proud to be working in partnership with Book Dash to feature developmentally appropriate picture books authored by African writers.
• To instill a love of reading, which leads to a love of learning
• To form habits at a young age which will last for a lifetime
• To model the behavior of reading to kids for parents and caregivers
• To highlight African authors and promote African literature on the global stage
• To bring new focus on the early childhood development opportunities in Sub-Saharan Africa
Building on our existing broadcast partnerships from previous Emmy and Peabody nominated shows, BB’s Book Bus intends to reach tens of millions of children across Africa and beyond.
We are currently seeking additional partners; including foundations, CSR teams, and mission-aligned funders, to support:
– Curriculum and learning materials
– Research and impact evaluation
– Additional episodes beyond the initial 12
This is a de-risked opportunity to strengthen and scale a project that is already in motion, with real reach and measurable impact.
If this aligns with your priorities, we would welcome the opportunity to connect. Email info@pvinternational.org for more information.
BB’s Book Bus will be available to television networks and streaming platforms from October 2026. To maximize impact and reach millions of learners, PVI is offering a pro bono license for the show to its network of 100+ broadcasters across Africa and beyond.