African Indigenous Languages and the Millennium Development Goals in South Africa

Abstract

The paper is based on the examination of secondary sources with regard to the role of African indigenous languages in the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in Africa. It is argued that the role of these indigenous languages has been marginalized in the implementation of the MDGs. They are important communication tools which enrich social interaction. The following recommendations, among others, are made: (i) emphasis on the role of ICT in mobilizing African indigenous language tools such as idioms, adages, proverbs, witty expressions and figures of speech for the actualization of the MDGs (ii) Strengthen partnerships between public and private sectors to ensure equitable access to and relevance and quality of ICT for all sections of society, and, (iii) The need to develop and provide materials and software in local languages to foster participation and inclusion of minorities.