Why embracing indigenous languages could have major benefits for Kenya

Class one pupils go through their new text books distributed by Kenya Literature Bureau at Central Primary school in Kisumu county on January 09,2019. The books are competent based curriculum compliant and will help learners up their academic skills. (Denish Ochieng/ Standard)

Kenya is a multilingual country with more than 42 different indigenous languages. In addition, foreign languages are used by minorities in major towns and in some learning institutions. The most dominant foreign language is English which is an official language alongside Kiswahili.

Foreign languages – especially English – enjoy the highest positive attitudes in regard to their acquisition and use. To many Kenyans, the perception is that a knowledge of English is a true sign of having good school education.