Youth Urged to Champion Kinyarwanda for Cultural Preservation and National Identity
Young Rwandans are being called upon to actively embrace and promote the use of Kinyarwanda in their daily lives, recognizing its crucial role in bolstering Rwanda’s national identity and safeguarding its rich cultural heritage. This imperative was a central theme during the sixth congress of the Youth League of the ruling RPF-Inkotanyi party, which convened recently at the party headquarters.
The congress featured a significant panel discussion focused on the aspirations of Rwandan citizens and the pivotal role of the youth in achieving them. Key areas of discussion included fostering job creation, promoting public health, and, most importantly, the preservation of the nation’s unique culture and language.
The Indispensable Role of Kinyarwanda
Braddock Le Sage Rwagasani, a prominent writer and entrepreneur, articulated the profound connection between Kinyarwanda and Rwanda’s identity. He emphasized that the language is a complete and historically significant entity, requiring no alteration. “Kinyarwanda is a complete language that does not need modification. It has existed for generations and continues to shape our culture every day,” Rwagasani stated. He urged the youth to commit to its protection, preservation, and correct usage across all facets of life.
Rwagasani highlighted observable trends, particularly in service delivery, where responses to Kinyarwanda inquiries are often a blend of languages. He warned that this practice could impede effective communication and inclusivity.
Data Underscores Linguistic Challenges
Supporting these concerns, recent data reveals persistent difficulties in accessing services in one’s mother tongue.
- The Fifth General Population and Housing Census (2022) indicated ongoing challenges.
- A study conducted between 2022 and 2023 by the Rwanda Academy of Language and Culture found that:
- 12.7 per cent of respondents encountered difficulties when services were provided in foreign languages.
- 19.5 per cent required further clarification due to language barriers.
- 5.8 per cent reported insufficient information available in non-Kinyarwanda languages.
- 19.5 per cent experienced delays in service provision.
- A significant 42.5 per cent did not understand written content presented in foreign languages.
Rwagasani stressed that the Rwanda envisioned by its youth necessitates citizens who possess a strong command of Kinyarwanda while simultaneously mastering international languages like English and French. “Knowing Kinyarwanda well helps you better understand and use other languages correctly. As youth, we must invest in improving our command of Kinyarwanda and using it appropriately,” he advised. He also cautioned against the excessive use of slang, particularly in formal settings, arguing that it diminishes the language’s inherent richness and cultural value.
Concerns were also raised by some participants regarding educational institutions that, they believe, discourage students from speaking Kinyarwanda, opting instead for the exclusive use of foreign languages. Such practices, it was warned, could gradually erode linguistic and cultural identity.
Poetic Call for Linguistic Valorization
Junior Rumaga, a respected poet, echoed the sentiment, imploring the youth to place a high value on their language. He drew upon the national anthem’s poignant line, “Our language unites us,” and the traditional proverb, “Ururimi ni ingobyi y’umuco” (language is the cradle of culture), to illustrate the deep-seated connection between language and identity.
Rumaga further advocated for broader institutional adoption of Kinyarwanda in service delivery and job application processes. “Even though we know English and French, applying for jobs in Kinyarwanda remains difficult. Many job advertisements are only in English, which discourages those who want to use our national language,” he observed.
Government Initiatives and Future Outlook
Addressing these linguistic gaps is a priority for the Rwandan government. The Sports and Culture Sector Strategic Plan (2024–2029) outlines policy directives and nationwide campaigns aimed at promoting Kinyarwanda across various sectors, including institutions, schools, and workplaces.
The Rwanda Cultural and Heritage Academy is tasked with leading the monitoring efforts. Current data indicates that Kinyarwanda was utilized in 49 per cent of private institutions during the 2023/2024 period. The strategic plan targets an annual increase of 10 per cent in its usage over the next five years.
Rumaga also expressed appreciation for the consistent encouragement from the Chairman of RPF-Inkotanyi, President Paul Kagame, in urging citizens to embrace Kinyarwanda. “Personally, I am among those who have gained opportunities because of Kinyarwanda. It has supported me,” he shared.
The overarching message from these discussions is clear: the preservation of Kinyarwanda transcends mere linguistic maintenance; it is intrinsically linked to safeguarding Rwanda’s cultural identity and ensuring its continuity for generations to come.
