Kenya is a linguistic mosaic home to over 60 indigenous languages alongside Kiswahili and English, which serve as our country’s official languages. From the rhythmic tones of Kikuyu to the lyrical flow of Dholuo and the distinctive clicks in Maasai, each language carries the history, traditions, and identity of its people. In many of our Kenyan communities, language is more than just a tool for communication—it is a marker of identity, a bridge to ancestral wisdom, and a carrier of oral traditions passed down through generations.
Grandmothers share proverbs in Kamba, elders recite historical tales in Kalenjin, and children in Maasai villages learn values through song and dance all in their mother tongues. However, the dominance of English and Kiswahili in formal education and public life has led to the gradual erosion of indigenous languages, with younger generations increasingly detached from their linguistic heritage.
As the world marks the 25th anniversary of International Mother Language Day, it is a timely reminder that linguistic diversity must be celebrated and protected. For years, Kenya’s education system has grappled with the challenge of balancing multilingualism with effective learning. Research shows that children learn best when taught in a language they understand. Recognizing this, the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) has placed greater emphasis on the use of mother tongues in early learning. In rural areas, schools are encouraged to teach in local languages before transitioning to Kiswahili and English. This approach not only improves literacy and comprehension but also strengthens cultural identity, ensuring that children feel connected to their roots. However, implementing mother-tongue-based education is not without challenges. Many urban schools, where students come from diverse linguistic backgrounds, struggle to decide which indigenous language to use. Additionally, some parents prefer their children to learn English and Kiswahili early, believing these languages provide better economic opportunities. The result is a delicate balancing act between preserving heritage and preparing children for a globalized world.
The silver jubilee of International Mother Language Day is a moment of reflection on what Kenya has achieved and what still needs to be done to safeguard its linguistic heritage. Across the country, various initiatives are working to keep indigenous languages alive. Institutions like the National Museums of Kenya and universities are actively recording oral traditions, folktales, and endangered languages to preserve them for future generations.
This year’s celebration of International Mother Language Day is a call to action. Schools can integrate indigenous languages into their curricula, parents can make a conscious effort to speak their mother tongues at home, and digital platforms can create more content in local dialects. Beyond nostalgia, embracing our languages is about preserving our stories, enhancing learning, and ensuring that future generations inherit the rich tapestry of Kenya’s linguistic heritage. As the Swahili proverb says, “Kisicho na msingi, hakina faida” (That which has no foundation is of no benefit). Language is our foundation—it shapes how we think, express ourselves, and connect with the world. As the world celebrates 25 years of championing linguistic diversity, Kenya must reaffirm its commitment to ensuring that no language, big or small, fades into silence.