Mogadishu, Somalia – In Mogadishu, the East African Kiswahili Commission (EAKC) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to helping Somalia integrate Kiswahili into its education, governance, and regional communication systems. The pledge followed a high-level meeting that brought together Somali officials, education experts, and regional language policymakers.
Dr. Caroline Asiimwe, the Executive Secretary of the EAKC, expressed deep appreciation to Somalia’s government and its development partners for their active role in advancing the language agenda. She emphasized that Kiswahili’s promotion is not only a cultural initiative but also a strategic tool for deepening regional cooperation within the East African Community (EAC).
The discussions in Mogadishu focused on practical steps to mainstream Kiswahili in Somalia’s institutions, including teacher training, curriculum development, and translation of key public documents. Participants agreed that language plays a vital role in economic integration and mutual understanding across borders, and Somalia’s inclusion in the Kiswahili framework marks a milestone in regional unity.
Officials from the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Culture highlighted ongoing efforts to introduce Kiswahili in schools and strengthen collaboration with neighboring countries where the language is widely spoken. These initiatives aim to create future generations of Somalis fluent in a regional lingua franca, fostering stronger ties in trade, diplomacy, and social cohesion.
Dr. Asiimwe reiterated that the EAKC stands ready to provide technical assistance, capacity building, and knowledge sharing to ensure Somalia’s Kiswahili integration succeeds. Her remarks underscored a shared vision of cultural inclusivity and linguistic empowerment, signaling a new chapter in Somalia’s engagement with the East African Community.
The meeting concluded with renewed optimism that Kiswahili will become a bridge connecting Somali citizens more closely to their East African neighbors, strengthening both identity and opportunity across the region.