Abstract:
This study investigates the role of Kiswahili in shaping African
identity, preserving cultural heritage, and contributing to global
narrative formation, with a particular focus on the challenges
posed by globalisation. Anchored in postcolonial theory and
cultural identity frameworks, the research employs a mixed-
methods design to capture both statistical patterns and narrative
depth. Data were collected from a purposive sample of 360
participants across East and Central Africa, including cultural
practitioners, academics, media professionals, NGO
representatives, and community members. Structured
questionnaires with closed- and open-ended items enabled the
integration of quantitative and qualitative insights. Key findings
indicate that Kiswahili significantly reinforces African identity
(73.6%), safeguards cultural heritage (73.7%), and promotes Pan-
African unity (68%), while also serving as a conduit for oral
traditions (76.4%) and indigenous knowledge systems through
proverbs (76.3%). However, the study identifies critical limitations
in Kiswahili’s global visibility, with low ratings in international
media representation (36.1% poor/very poor) and literary
translation (48.6% poor/very poor), alongside intergenerational
concerns over declining youth engagement (61.1%). The study
argues that despite Kiswahili’s regional vitality, structural barriers-
linguistic hierarchies, digital exclusion, and weak policy
frameworks-continue to constrain its global influence. It calls for
strategic interventions, including language policy reform,
educational integration, digital resource expansion, and systematic
translation efforts to elevate Kiswahili’s status as a vehicle for
cultural preservation and global epistemic inclusion.
