Gov’t launches Language Policy to foster cohesion

The government has launched the Language for Kenya Policy targeting public institutions that it hopes will help promote national cohesion.

ICT Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru says the Language Policy will be applied in public schools, judiciary and other government institutions to promote good governance.

Speaking during the launch at Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development, Mucheru said the guide to languages to be used in public offices will foster unity and in the process boost the economy.

The CS, however, intimated creation of the policy will not in any way discredit varied ethnicities, as it promotes good governance and national prosperity, coming amid rising ethnic and political divisions.

According to the ICT Ministry, the purpose of the policy is to ensure that Kenyans citizens achieve their linguistic rights, are able to clearly understand and appreciate public information and communication, and derive social and economic benefits from their rich linguistic heritage.

“The preservation of cultural and linguistic diversity in today’s world is a major concern. In recognition of the importance of language in achieving national goals, the Government delegated the responsibility of developing language policy to the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology. Language is essential for communication, education, information and every aspect of social and economic development,” read a statement from the Ministry.