Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa stresses the danger of extinction for African languages and calls for efforts to promote multilingualism and the use of indigenous languages in education, highlighting their cultural significance and role in unity and development in Africa.
Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, expressed grave concern regarding the potential extinction of numerous African languages within the next century. He emphasized that language serves as a critical component of cultural identity, urging African communities to take this issue seriously. His remarks came during a flag-raising ceremony celebrating the 55th Anniversary of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) in Accra, where he highlighted the organization’s commitment to promoting French and cultural diversity.
Mr. Ablakwa noted that Africa is rich in linguistic heritage, hosting nearly one-third of the world’s languages. However, according to the UNESCO Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger, about 10 percent of these languages, particularly those from smaller communities, risk disappearing in the near future. He called for an urgent collective effort to address this pressing matter.
He urged African governments to actively promote multilingualism, particularly indigenous languages, which he sees as essential for fostering unity, peace, and sustainable development. By encouraging multilingual education, societal cohesion, inclusivity, and overall progress can be achieved. Mr. Ablakwa reaffirmed the Ghanaian Government’s commitment to institutionalizing the use of first languages as mediums of instruction in early education.
Additionally, he stated that efforts will be made to integrate indigenous knowledge and traditions into educational materials, helping to create a more meaningful learning experience for children. This, he argued, is vital in preserving local languages and cultures while enhancing educational outcomes for students in Ghana.
The statements made by Minister Ablakwa underscore an urgent challenge facing Africa regarding the preservation of its linguistic diversity. He emphasizes the significant role of language in shaping cultural identity and advocates for the promotion of multilingualism as essential for unity and development. The Ghanaian Government’s initiative to incorporate indigenous languages into early childhood education represents a proactive step toward safeguarding these invaluable cultural assets.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
