World Kishwahili Language Day: 07 July

World Kiswahili Day is celebrated on the 7th of July every year following a declaration by UNESCO member states in this regard. Kiswahili is one of the most widely spoken languages in Africa and the most widely spoken in sub-Saharan Africa. Kiswahili is also the only African language that is an official language of the African Union.

World Kishwahili Language Day 2022: Theme

The first World Kiswahili Language Day is being observed worldwide under the theme ‘Kiswahili for peace and prosperity’.

World Kishwahili Language Day: History

In November 2021 at its 41st Session in Paris, the General Conference of UNESCO declared July 7th World Kiswahili Language Day. By Resolution 41 C/61, Member States recognized the critical role played by Kiswahili in promoting cultural diversity, creating awareness, and fostering dialogue among civilizations. On July 7th 2022, the Permanent Mission of the United Republic of Tanzania to the United Nations and UNESCO will held the first international celebration of the World’s Kiswahili Language Day at the United Nations Headquarter in New York.

About Kiswahili language

Kiswahili language is widely spoken in Africa and sub-Saharan Africa. It is the only African language, to become the official language of African Union. It is also the first African language that United Nations has recognized in this manner.