PARIS: THE Chairperson of the African Group at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and Senegal’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Mr Pierre Faye, has called for greater global efforts to promote Kiswahili as a powerful tool for strengthening unity, cultural identity, peace and development across Africa and beyond.
Speaking on behalf of the African Union and its member states during the Fifth World Kiswahili Day celebrations and the Second International Kiswahili Conference at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, on Tuesday, Mr Faye said Kiswahili has become an important instrument for fostering cooperation, solidarity and economic diplomacy among nations.
He said the language plays a vital role in connecting people, preserving cultural identity and promoting dialogue among communities.
“Kiswahili is more than a language of communication; it is a true reflection of people’s history, a tool for preserving memories and the heritage of different communities,” Mr Faye said.
He added that Kiswahili represents Africa’s rich cultural diversity and can help advance the African Union’s vision of a more united continent with a stronger voice in global affairs.
Mr Faye also highlighted UNESCO’s role in using language and culture to promote lasting dialogue, peace and mutual understanding worldwide.
Meanwhile, Tanzania has pledged to continue working with local and international stakeholders to strengthen Kiswahili’s position on the global stage.
The country’s Ambassador and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Mr Saidi Othman Yakubu, said the conference highlighted Tanzania’s commitment to expanding the use and recognition of Kiswahili through stronger partnerships with France and other international stakeholders.
He said the conference was the culmination of months of preparation and collaboration between Tanzania, France and international partners aimed at strengthening Kiswahili’s position as a global language.
“This is a very unique conference because of the preparations that have been done for several months in coordination between Tanzania, France and international partners,” Amb Yakubu said.
He commended the ministries responsible for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports in Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar, as well as other stakeholders, for organising the event.
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Amb Yakubu said participation by delegates from 16 countries reflected the growing international recognition of Kiswahili.
“The large number of participating countries demonstrates increasing appreciation of Kiswahili’s contribution to strengthening diplomacy, education, culture and international communication,” he said.
He said the conference brought together government leaders, diplomats, academics, language experts and Kiswahili stakeholders from different parts of the world to discuss strategies for expanding the use, teaching and development of the language internationally.
The conference attracted participants from 16 countries, including Tanzania, Comoros, Germany, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Italy, Luxembourg, Sweden, Belgium, Austria, Turkey and Egypt.
Amb Yakubu also recognised the participation of Tanzanian ambassadors and representatives serving across Europe, saying their presence strengthened Tanzania’s cultural diplomacy and promoted the country’s heritage abroad.
He added that Tanzania will continue working closely with local and international partners to ensure Kiswahili gains wider global recognition while contributing to peace, solidarity and mutual understanding among nations