# West African promotion of national languages in education

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/west-african-promotion-of-national-languages-in-education
> Updated: 2026-09-27T10:12:16.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 3.

In September 2026, West African nations emphasized the role of national and local languages in education and social development.

In Benin, the government marked the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day by promoting literacy through national languages. The Minister of Secondary Education, Adéyèmi Clément Kouchadé, described these languages as “essential tools for inclusion, empowerment, and sustainable development,” particularly for youth and women.

In Senegal, during the celebration of International Soninké Language Day at the Maison de la Culture Douta Seck, Minister of National Education Moustapha Mamba Guirassy advocated for using national languages to transform the school system. He stated that these languages are vital for creating an inclusive educational environment rooted in local sociocultural realities and noted that linguistic diversity contributes to national unity. Guirassy called for collective action between the state, families, and community actors to use these languages as instruments for learning.

The 3rd edition of the International Soninké Language Day (JILSO) also took place in Bamako, Mali, at the Mémorial Modibo KEÏTA. Under the theme ‘The experience of conflict management in the Soninké environment,’ the event focused on how traditional mechanisms for mediation, dialogue, and dispute resolution can support contemporary national peace and social cohesion. The ceremony in Mali included participation from the Minister of Reconciliation, Peace, and National Cohesion, alongside ministers of National Education and Culture.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-27: Soninké Language Day celebrated in Senegal and Mali

The 3rd International Soninké Language Day was celebrated in Senegal and Mali, highlighting cultural heritage, institutional restructuring of Wagadu Jiida, and traditional conflict resolution methods.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sonink-language-day-celebrated-in-senegal-and-mali

### 2026-09-25: Senegal celebrates International Soninké Language Day

Senegal's Education Minister Moustapha Mamba Guirassy celebrated International Soninké Language Day, advocating for the use of national languages to create a more inclusive and culturally rooted school system.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/senegal-celebrates-international-sonink-language-day

### 2026-09-10: Benin promotes national languages for International Literacy Day

Benin marks the 60th International Literacy Day by emphasizing the use of national languages to promote social inclusion and sustainable development.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/benin-promotes-national-languages-for-international-literacy-day

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Cite as: West African promotion of national languages in education. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/west-african-promotion-of-national-languages-in-education