As Namibia reflects on the legacy of its Founding President Sam Nujoma, one meaningful way to honour his Pan-African vision is by reintroducing Kiswahili in schools. 

More than just a language, Kiswahili represents unity, identity and opportunity – values that Nujoma championed throughout his life. He was a firm believer in African unity and saw Kiswahili as a bridge that could connect people across borders, breaking the linguistic barriers imposed by colonialism. 

He loved speaking the language, and encouraged its use, recognising its role in fostering brotherhood. 

During Namibia’s liberation struggle, many Namibians, including Nujoma, sought refuge and military training in Tanzania and higher education in Kenya, where Kiswahili became part of their daily lives.

Despite this historical connection, Namibia does not widely teach Kiswahili today. 

The country had previously initiated efforts to introduce the language in schools, but the plan was discontinued. Meanwhile, European languages like German, Portuguese and French continue to dominate foreign language curricula. While these languages have their place, it is time for an African language – one as influential as Kiswahili – to receive the same recognition.

Strengthening regional and economic ties

Kiswahili is spoken by over 200 million people across Africa, serving as the official language of the African Union (AU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), of which Namibia is a member. 

As Namibia strengthens trade and diplomatic relations with East African, countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Somalia and South Sudan, where Kiswahili is widely spoken, it could become an invaluable tool for communication and collaboration.

Several neighbouring SADC countries, including Zambia, Angola, Malawi, Comoros and Mozambique, recognise Kiswahili as a minority language, while Botswana and South Africa are actively introducing it in their education systems. 

Namibia should not be left behind.

The economic benefits are clear.

Namibian businesses expanding across Africa could use Kiswahili to connect more easily with partners in East and Central Africa, facilitating trade and investment. 

Organisations such as the Namibia-Kenya Chamber of Commerce, launched last year in Windhoek, are already working to enhance economic ties between the two nations and position them as gateways to the SADC and East African Community markets. 

Language should not be a barrier to these opportunities.

Opportunities

Beyond trade, proficiency in Kiswahili can benefit Namibians pursuing careers in diplomacy, international relations and regional organisations. 

As the AU and other Pan-African institutions grow in influence, knowing Kiswahili could give Namibians a competitive edge in securing jobs within these bodies.

Students aspiring to work for international organisations like the United Nations (UN), the AU or the African Development Bank would benefit greatly from learning Kiswahili. In a world where multilingualism is increasingly valuable, adding an African language to one’s skill set can only be an advantage.

Cultural identity 

For too long, African languages have been sidelined in favour of colonial languages. 

Many Namibians are fluent in English, Afrikaans or German, but how many can communicate in an African language beyond their mother tongue?

Reintroducing Kiswahili in schools would send a powerful message: Namibia values its African identity.

Learning Kiswahili is not about replacing local languages but embracing a unifying African tongue that connects Namibia to the rest of the continent. Just as European languages are promoted for their global significance, Kiswahili should be recognised for its African importance. 

It is time we take pride in our own linguistic heritage and stop viewing foreign languages as superior.

Historic bond 

Namibia and East Africa share deep historical ties. 

During the liberation struggle, Tanzania provided training camps and refuge for Namibian freedom fighters, while many Namibians studied in Kenya. 

Those who lived in Kenya and Tanzania during that time became fluent in Kiswahili, using it in daily interactions.

Reintroducing Kiswahili in Namibian schools would symbolise a renewed commitment to these historic friendships. 

It would deepen diplomatic and cultural ties, ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate the sacrifices made by African nations in support of Namibia’s independence.

Easy-to-learn 

One of Kiswahili’s greatest advantages is its simplicity. 

Unlike European languages with complex grammar rules, Kiswahili has a straightforward structure and pronunciation, making it easier to learn. This accessibility makes it a practical choice for students, who could quickly develop conversational skills useful in travel, business and regional interactions.

Implementing Kiswahili in schools does not have to be complicated. 

It could start as an optional subject, allowing students to learn it alongside other languages. 

Over time, as interest grows, it could become an integral part of Namibia’s language policy. If Namibia is truly committed to honouring Nujoma’s legacy, reintroducing Kiswahili is a step in the right direction. 

It would not only celebrate his Pan-African ideals but also equip Namibians with a language that is practical, valuable and deeply rooted in the African experience.

The call to bring back Kiswahili is not just about nostalgia. It is about preparing Namibia for a more integrated and connected Africa. 

As the continent moves toward greater economic and political unity, linguistic barriers should not hold us back.

Kiswahili is the language of African cooperation and embracing it would position Namibia at the forefront of this movement. The question is not whether Namibia can afford to bring back Kiswahili – it is whether we can afford not to.

*Elvis Mboya is the president of the Namibia-Kenya Chamber of Commerce and a former journalist in Namibia and Kenya.