Adult education is offering Kenyans who missed formal schooling a pathway back to learning, improving access to further education, livelihoods and social participation, according to the Kenya News Agency. The issue was highlighted in Murang'a County as stakeholders marked International Literacy Day, encouraging adult learners to embrace lifelong learning.

Nigeria marked International Literacy Day on September 8, 2026, the 60th anniversary of the event, celebrated under the theme 'Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity.' According to Daily Trust, the occasion offers an opportunity to reflect on global progress in literacy and its links to insecurity affecting Nigeria's children, with a view to advancing literacy for all.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, marked the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day 2026 by urging greater attention to adult education. In her commemorative message, she described literacy as fundamental to personal empowerment and national development, according to Leadership (NG). The report also noted her reference to this year’s theme, “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity,” linking adult learning with broader social and economic goals.

Marking International Literacy Day, The Chanzo highlights Tanzania's literacy challenges and calls for urgent action across Africa. The article argues that literacy extends beyond basic reading and writing skills, framing it as central to broader development. According to the outlet, the occasion serves as a reminder of the continent's ongoing literacy crisis and the need for renewed commitment to education.

Tanzania is repositioning adult education beyond basic reading, writing and numeracy toward broader skills development, employment, entrepreneurship and lifelong learning, according to Daily News. The shift comes as the country marks International Literacy Day and prepares for Adult Education Week. Officials say the reframed sector aims to support fuller participation in society and national development, moving away from the decades-old association of adult education with literacy alone.

An opinion piece by Nkechi Christopher published in Nigeria's Tribune Online argues that literacy is a lifelong journey that begins before formal schooling and continues into adulthood. The article contends that literacy develops alongside an individual's capacity to learn, communicate, participate in society and make informed choices, framing it as essential to Nigeria's people, the planet and prosperity. The piece highlights the broader importance of literacy for national development and individual empowerment across all stages of life.