This podcast episode explores the complex relationship between language, culture, and colonisation in Africa, featuring distinguished linguist Salikoko Mufwene from the Democratic Republic of Congo. We discuss the historical impact of colonial languages on African societies, education, and cultural identity.

Pre-colonial African civilisations thrived with their own languages and customs, which served as bridges between diverse ethnic groups. However, the arrival of Arabs and Europeans introduced foreign languages that reshaped local cultures. Today, colonial languages like English and French dominate African education systems, often marginalising indigenous languages.

Mufwene highlights how this linguistic dominance perpetuates inequality and undermines cultural heritage. The ease in accessibility of colonial over local languages in most education systems, illustrates the challenges Africans face learning in foreign languages.

The episode calls for prioritising indigenous languages in education to achieve true cultural and intellectual independence. Mufwene argues that empowering native languages is key to fostering national development and reclaiming Africa's cultural identity. Ultimately, this conversation emphasises the importance of linguistic decolonisation for Africa’s future.