Eswatini Ministry Warns Broadcasters on SiSwati Language Loss

The Eswatini government has warned broadcasters that the SiSwati language is slowly being lost, with a call to take a leading role in preserving it.

This warning comes as part of efforts to promote and protect the country's official languages. The preservation of SiSwati is significant for practitioners, businesses, and the public, as it is an essential aspect of Eswatini's cultural heritage and identity. The language plays a crucial role in maintaining the country's history, traditions, and customs.

The relevant statutes and regulations involved in this matter include the Eswatini Language Act of 2017, which recognizes SiSwati as one of the official languages of the country. The act also provides for the promotion and protection of the language through various measures, including education and media. The courts in Eswatini have not yet been directly involved in this matter, but it is likely that they will play a role in enforcing the provisions of the Language Act.

The key parties involved in this issue are the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT), broadcasters, and language experts. Practitioners should monitor developments related to language preservation and promotion, as well as any changes to relevant legislation or regulations.