As the experts meeting on Kiswahili continues in Nairobi, deeper conversations are emerging—moving beyond policy into the practical realities of language use, media integration, and institutional readiness.
A key moment in these discussions was a presentation by Ms. Nutifafa Yawa Francina Feyi, serving in her role as an African language media expert, on integrating Kiswahili into ACALAN-AU media. Her presentation shifted the focus from visibility to usability—emphasizing the need to make Kiswahili a living language of communication through relatable, audience-centered content.
African Language Media Expert
This sparked a candid and necessary exchange among participants. Prof. Pacifique Malonga raised a fundamental question: has the African Academy of Languages itself sufficiently engaged with Kiswahili in practice before encouraging its widespread adoption in media? The question underscored a broader concern about credibility and institutional example.
In response, Ms. Feyi acknowledged the current gap, noting that the process is beginning from scratch. She highlighted that ACALAN is now actively engaging language commissions across the Kiswahili-speaking region to co-create content in African languages. Starting with Kiswahili, the goal is to develop a solid working document or framework that can be replicated across other African languages within the ACALAN-AU media ecosystem.
Concerns around editorial direction also surfaced. Dr. Kisembo Ronex Tendo, commission member from Uganda, pointed to the potential risks of editorial policies being influenced by funders, raising questions about independence and long-term credibility.
Addressing this, Dr. Prof. Vicensia Shule reaffirmed that ACALAN-AU media is firmly anchored in the vision of the African Union and aligned with the aspirations of Agenda 2063. She emphasized that the editorial policy is pro-African Union, ensuring that content development remains guided by continental priorities rather than external interests.
Ag. ES, ACALAN
These exchanges reflect a broader shift taking place within the meeting—one that recognizes that advancing Kiswahili is not only about endorsement, but about building systems, trust, and content that truly resonate with African audiences.