Preliminary observations on indigenous language preservation policies in Africa

Abstract

The article presents some preliminary reflections on the institutionalization process of indigenous language preservation policies in Africa from 2000 to the present within a postcolonial context. Drawing on postcolonial sociolinguistic theory and the perspective of “multilingualism for development,” the study analyzes the paradigm shift from viewing indigenous languages as obstacles to modernization to recognizing multilingualism as a vital resource for development and epistemic justice. Using a comparative policy analysis approach, the article demonstrates that African language policy has evolved from a symbolic phase (2000 - 2010) to one of substantive institutionalization (2010 - present), characterized by the expansion of multilingual education, technological innovation, and community participation. Nevertheless, this process remains constrained by linguistic hierarchies and institutional limitations. The article underscores the crucial interconnection among the state, academia, technology, and communities in transforming language preservation into a driver of sustainable development.