ARUSHA: Tanzania is stepping up efforts to promote Swahili as a global commercial language, focusing on digital monetisation, regional expansion and technology-driven growth, a senior government official said.
Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports Paul Makonda said Swahili should be viewed not only as a means of communication but also as an economic asset capable of generating income and supporting development.
“Swahili must become a product — a tool for business, innovation and income generation,” Makonda said at the Fifth World Swahili Radio Stations Conference in Arusha.
The conference, attended by more than 500 participants from across Africa and beyond, was officially opened by Zanzibar’s Second Vice President Hemed Suleiman Abdulla.
Makonda said Tanzania aims to leverage digital platforms to enable artists, journalists and content creators to generate income through Swahili-language content, similar to creators using global languages such as English.
He also outlined plans to expand the use of Swahili across the East African Community (EAC), positioning it as a key language for business, tourism, education and broadcasting.
“Kiswahili should drive regional integration and unlock economic opportunities,” he said.
As part of the strategy, Tanzania is seeking to extend the reach of Swahili through its media institutions by establishing outlets in other African countries to strengthen cultural and economic ties.
Makonda added that the government is engaging global technology companies, including Meta, to enhance the visibility and monetisation of Swahili content on digital platforms.
Meanwhile, Abdulla said the conference reflects growing commitment to promoting Swahili globally through media, culture and the arts.
“This platform brings together stakeholders to advance the use of standard Swahili and strengthen its global presence,” he said.
Kiswahili’s global rise in focus as Zanzibar hosts regional language milestone
Chairperson of the National Kiswahili Council (BAKITA), Martin Mhango, said the language continues to expand internationally and is increasingly used in media and taught in universities.
Caroline Asimwe, Executive Secretary of the East African Kiswahili Commission, called for stronger regional cooperation, saying the language must be supported collectively to grow.
“Swahili should be a language of science, diplomacy and business,” she said.
Officials said the push to commercialise Swahili reflects broader efforts to integrate culture, technology and economic development, as countries in the region seek to tap into the growing digital economy.