By TBN Staff Writer, London
Swahili Ambassador for Africa and former First Lady of Tanzania, Her Excellency Salma Kikwete, has underscored the vital role of the Kiswahili language in promoting unity, preserving culture and advancing social and economic development across Africa and the wider world.
She said Kiswahili has evolved far beyond its East African roots to become a language of regional integration and international dialogue, bringing together people from diverse cultures, backgrounds and nations. According to her, the language continues to serve as a powerful tool for fostering mutual understanding, strengthening cooperation and encouraging peaceful coexistence among communities.
Mrs Kikwete further noted that the growing use of Kiswahili on international platforms is clear evidence of its expanding global significance. She said its increasing adoption by international organisations, educational institutions and diplomatic forums demonstrates the language’s unique ability to bridge cultures while showcasing Africa’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage.
She made the remarks during a special celebration marking World Kiswahili Language Day, held at the House of Lords in London. The event was hosted following an invitation from Lord Paul Boateng, a Member of the House of Lords and a long-time supporter of stronger relations between the United Kingdom and Africa.
The celebration brought together diplomats, parliamentarians, academics, cultural leaders and members of the African diaspora to recognise the remarkable growth of Kiswahili from a regional lingua franca into one of the world’s fastest-growing international languages. Discussions focused on its contribution to education, diplomacy, trade, literature, media and cultural exchange, as well as opportunities to further expand its teaching and use worldwide.
Mrs Kikwete called upon governments, universities and cultural institutions to continue investing in the promotion of Kiswahili, describing it as an important vehicle for advancing African identity and strengthening international partnerships. She observed that as Africa assumes an increasingly influential role in global affairs, Kiswahili is well positioned to become a leading language of diplomacy, commerce, innovation and intercultural communication.
She also commended initiatives aimed at encouraging young people, both across Africa and within the diaspora, to embrace and preserve the language for future generations, saying such efforts are essential in safeguarding one of the continent’s greatest cultural assets.
The event at the House of Lords further reflected the growing international recognition of Kiswahili since UNESCO established World Kiswahili Language Day, celebrated annually on 7 July, making it the first African language to be officially recognised with a dedicated international day by the United Nations system.













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