Lumumba on Africa: English vs. Native Languages

Professor PLO Lumumba often speaks about Africa’s challenges. He is a prominent voice on African affairs. You can find his speeches on his YouTube channel (https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCUxwK4ielwCe-swmZ9-YwUQ). He uses these speeches to show his eloquence and Pan-Africanist views. During a seminar, Lumumba made a key point. It was about language and its impact on African identity. He noted that many African nations prioritize English over their own languages. He believes this hurts cultural preservation and progress. This article looks at Lumumba’s view. It explores the impact of this language problem. It also looks at ways to create a more balanced approach.

Lumumba’s Observation: The Language Landscape

Professor Lumumba is a Kenyan lawyer and Pan-Africanist (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Lumumba). He spoke about language policies around the world and in Africa. He noted that countries like Norway, Denmark, Finland, China, Japan, Korea, and Poland use their national language for education and communication. He stated, “If you go to Norway they teach Nowish, go Denmark Danish, go to Finland they teach in finish, go to China they teach in Chinese, go to Japan they teach in Japanese, go to Korea they teach in Korish, go to Poland they teach in Polish.” This focus on native languages builds national identity and pride.

Lumumba then talked about a trend in Africa that worries him. He said, “Then come to Africa we are bosting who is more eloquent in English, we see English as measure of Intelligence, sad.” He argues that there is too much focus on English. This focus is often at the cost of local languages. He thinks this shows a post-colonial mindset and a misplaced sense of value. Lumumba says that this makes people think eloquence in English equals intelligence. This can exclude people who are not fluent in English. You can find updates on his views and speeches on his Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/PLO.Lumumba).

The Impact of English Dominance

Professor Lumumba’s point highlights cultural identity. It also shows the lasting impact of colonialism in Africa. Prioritizing English can make people feel inferior. It can also detach them from their heritage. This happens in more places than just Africa. It is a result of historical power. The language of the colonizer becomes linked to education and success.

Lumumba stresses that this language problem is common in African societies. Because it is so widespread, it needs serious thought. There should also be a strong effort to promote and protect African languages. English dominates schools and official settings. This can exclude people who are not fluent. This creates obstacles and worsens inequalities. It makes it so that those who speak English well have an advantage. This is true no matter their other skills.

Also, too much reliance on English can limit creativity. It restricts ideas to a foreign language. When people must think and speak in a language that is not their own, it can be hard to fully share their thoughts. This can stop the development of unique African ideas and solutions. So, the challenge is balance. Africa needs to embrace global communication through English. It also needs to protect the richness of African languages. These languages are key for cultural identity.

Towards a Multilingual Future

One solution is to invest in education. These systems should teach both English and local languages. This would give students skills for the world. It would also build pride in their culture. By learning both languages, students can better understand their own culture and the world. This can help them communicate and solve problems.

Also, promoting African languages in media can help. This includes literature and the arts. This can bring these languages back to life. It can also ensure they stay relevant. Supporting African artists who create content in local languages can help. It can raise the profile of these languages. This can create community among speakers of these languages. This will encourage young people to learn and use these languages. This will help them survive.

Ultimately, language dominance needs a shift in thinking. People need to see the value of African languages. They also need to see their role in shaping Africa’s future. This means realizing that English skills should not hurt one’s native language. There needs to be a clear effort to promote African languages. This will ensure they thrive and add to the continent’s richness.

Conclusion

Professor Lumumba’s point is a call to action. African nations must rethink their view of language. They need to protect their language heritage. By using many languages, Africa can build a stronger cultural identity. This can empower its people and unlock its potential. It is vital to see the value of local languages. They help shape a brighter future for Africa.