The Scottish Bible Society has launched a fundraising drive to overcome one of the greatest scourges still afflicting the African continent – illiteracy.

It wants to teach more people in Africa to read and write and is aiming its campaign specifically at women, who are often not given the opportunity to learn.

In Senegal, 60 per cent of the population is unable to read. Even in the churches, where in the West Bible reading is taken for granted, only two per cent of those who attend services are able to read.

The organisation warns that illiteracy is continuing to make life harder than it needs to be for Africans because it prevents them from finding work and accessing lifesaving health information.

Scottish Bible Society Chief Executive Elaine Duncan said literacy was more than just a luxury.

“On many levels it can be a lifesaver,” she said. “Literacy will open the door not only to vital healthcare information but also to greater involvement in community affairs.”

Funds raised will go towards a project being run in partnership with World Vision to recruit thousands of people from churches and schools across Africa to teach adults how to read and write.

Ms Duncan said the project would benefit not only the adult learners but also their children.

“We will be able to help train recruits to set up local classes for adult beginners, providing materials from blackboards and chalk to basic primers and workbooks. As students master the essentials, they will receive Scripture-based materials to assist their progress,” she said.

“The process may take up to four years – but it will be worth the effort. Not only will parents be able to read signs and notices, they’ll see the necessity of sending their own children to school.”

Just £12 provides Scripture-based booklets to help 12 people who are learning to read, while £25 can provide training for teachers, primer booklets and specially-designed Scriptures.

Ms Duncan added that the project would make it possible for many people to read the Bible by themselves for the first time.

She said: “By donating, people will be able to help establish and maintain these projects in towns and villages from Senegal to Swaziland so that young and old can discover God’s Good News for themselves.”