This month’s commentary is contributed by Avishta Seeras.
The African Languages Conference (AFLC) was born out of a shared passion for the promotion and preservation of Africa’s rich linguistic heritage. In a world where languages are increasingly endangered, AFLC emerged as a beacon of hope for the continent’s languages. Founded by myself and Ady Namaran Coulibaly, the conference made its debut in 2022 during African Languages Week, a period dedicated to celebrating and advocating for the use of African languages.
The inaugural event set the tone for what would become an annual gathering of language activists, professionals, and enthusiasts, all committed to the cause of linguistic diversity and the advancement of language and digital rights across Africa. By fostering conversations, sharing experiences, and advocating for access to digital tools and platforms that empower African language speakers, AFLC has grown into a powerful platform for highlighting the critical role of African languages in shaping the continent’s development.
Vision
We wish to see a continent where African languages are vibrant and fully integrated into every aspect of society, contributing to the cultural, social, and economic development of Africa.
Mission
We aim to create a robust collaborative platform for the promotion of African languages and the advancement of language and digital rights through advocacy and education.
AFLC 2024
The 2024 edition of the African Languages Conference, organized around the theme “African Languages: Challenges and Opportunities,” took place from 21 to 28 February 2024. The event had over 650 attendees, with 19 sessions delivered in 14 languages including 12 African ones, and a total of 30 speakers and panelists. Sessions addressed diverse topics, including multilingual education across the continent, language representations of cultural identity in popular media, and language diversity in Africa.
Watch the replay of the 2024 edition of the African Languages Conference here.
AFLC 2025
The 2025 edition of the African Languages conference is set to take place during African Languages Week (21 to 28 February 2025) under the theme “Harnessing African Languages for Digital Transformation and Social Justice”. The Conference will bring together experts, activists, and innovators to explore how African languages can drive digital innovation and foster social equity.
The conference will feature keynote sessions, panel discussions, and workshops, providing a platform for individuals or sponsors to support language diversity and contribute to the future of Africa’s digital and linguistic landscape.
For more information about upcoming AFLC activities and events, connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, X (Twitter) and Facebook or subscribe to our newsletter here.
AFLC is in the process of becoming a non-profit organization. In the meantime, we continue to champion African languages, ensuring they remain a vibrant and integral part of Africa’s cultural fabric and future, while promoting the essential rights and access to both language and digital resources.
AFLC Team
Directors
Programs and Outreach Coordinator