Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Heritage Hanna Wendot Cheptumo, has reaffirmed her commitment to positioning Kiswahili as a powerful catalyst for unity, inclusive development, and regional growth across East Africa.
Speaking at the 4th World Kiswahili Language Day held in Kigali, Rwanda, CS Cheptumo described Kiswahili as more than just a language, calling it “a shared identity and development tool that binds the people of East Africa.”
“We recognize the vital role Kiswahili plays in promoting inclusive communication, social cohesion, and shared development across our communities,” said the Cabinet Secretary.
She was among several regional leaders, including Rwanda’s Minister of State, James Kabarebe, during the official opening ceremony of the celebrations.
Cheptumo stated that the EAC’s Heads of State have already laid a strong foundation for elevating Kiswahili through the decision to designate it as an official language of the Community—a move that enshrines the language within the region’s legal and policy framework.
This year’s celebrations, held under the theme: “Kiswahili, Inclusive Education, and Sustainable Development,” focused on the role of language in promoting equity in education and achieving regional development goals aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“As Chair of the Council of Ministers, I look forward to receiving bold and actionable proposals from the Commission on how Kiswahili can be effectively integrated into inclusive education systems,” she said, noting the transformative power of language in reaching marginalized populations.
Cheptumo expressed appreciation to the Government of Rwanda for graciously hosting the event and commended the East African Kiswahili Commission (KAKAMA) for successfully coordinating the activities.
She called on KAKAMA to deepen collaboration with stakeholders, especially youth, educators, and cultural institutions, to extend Kiswahili’s practical use in society and maximize its development impact.
“We are ready, as the Council of Ministers, to act on expert advice and ensure Kiswahili becomes central to our integration agenda and a symbol of our shared future,” she remarked.
Eric Biegon
