By Timothy Wekesa
BUNGOMA, Kenya
Kiswahili is steadily gaining ground in Europe, with more learners adopting the East African language as a preferred second language, according to experts.
Stakeholders say deliberate investments in teaching, policy, and cultural exchange have driven the growth.
But the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is now reshaping the conversation, prompting calls to adapt Kiswahili’s syntax and structure for the digital age.
Filipo Lubua, president of the World Swahili Federation and a University of Pittsburgh lecturer, called the language’s growing European acceptance a major milestone.
“This is an important step as we work to align the language with technological changes and meet the needs of an expanding online community,” Lubua said.
Musa Mohamed of the University of Dar es Salaam and Nyani Simala of Masinde Muliro University echoed Lubua, stressing the need for increased investment in Kiswahili training and official use to boost its online visibility and functionality in the age of AI.
The remarks came during the 10th Kiswahili Extravaganza at Kibabii University in Bungoma County, which focused on leveraging AI to strengthen the language.
Kibabii University Vice Chancellor Prof. Ipara Odeo highlighted the importance of reinforcing Kiswahili departments to nurture a new generation of scholars and innovators.
Originating in East Africa, Kiswahili’s expansion into Europe is expected to enhance international business, education, media, arts and cultural exchange, experts say.
