Tanzania’s Minister of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Paul Christian Makonda, has highlighted the growing international prominence of the Swahili language, describing it as a cornerstone of African identity and a key instrument for diplomacy, education, and development.
Speaking at the International Mother Language Day celebrations on February 20, 2026, held at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, Makonda represented the Government of Tanzania and praised the increasing global use of Swahili.
He noted that more than 500 million people worldwide communicate in Swahili, emphasizing its strategic role in international diplomacy and the global economy.
Makonda also conveyed congratulations from the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, to UNESCO for its efforts in promoting Swahili across the world.
He reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to investing in education, research, and international collaboration to further strengthen the language’s global reach.
