STOCKHOLM: THE Embassy of Tanzania in Sweden joined more than 583 participants, including diplomats, Tanzanians living in Sweden, teachers, Kiswahili language students, and cultural stakeholders, to celebrate World Kiswahili Language Day in Stockholm.
The celebration was held under the theme, “Kiswahili for Peace, Solidarity and Economic Diplomacy Worldwide,” highlighting the role of the Kiswahili language in promoting international cooperation and fostering global understanding.
Speaking at the event, Tanzania’s Ambassador to Sweden, Swahiba Mndeme, reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to promoting and expanding the use of Kiswahili through collaboration with the Tanzanian diaspora, educational institutions, the arts and cultural sectors, and other development partners.
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The guest of honour, Dario Jovic, Acting Director of the Africa Department at Sweden’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs, underscored the important role of Kiswahili in advancing peace, solidarity, and international cooperation. He also commended Tanzania for its continued efforts to promote and expand the language globally.
Rwanda’s Ambassador to Sweden and Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps, Dr. Diane Gashumba, emphasized the importance of African countries taking pride in Kiswahili as a unifying language that strengthens continental unity and promotes Africa’s identity on the global stage.
In addition to the cultural celebrations, the event featured a range of services and exhibitions for the Tanzanian diaspora, including investment opportunities through UTT AMIS, banking services, promotion of Tanzania’s tourism attractions, and exhibitions showcasing traditional cuisine, local products, arts, fashion, and other aspects of the rich Kiswahili cultural heritage.
