As Rwanda marks this year’s observance of International Mother Language Day, today, we are invited to reflect not only on language as a means of communication, but as the foundation of who we are. ALSO READ: Fluent to the world, losing our voice at home Although the day is celebrated globally on February 21 to promote linguistic diversity, multilingualism, and the preservation of mother tongues, Rwanda has chosen February 24 to highlight its unique national context. In a world where linguistic fragmentation often mirrors social division, our country stands apart. Ikinyarwanda — spoken by virtually all Rwandans — is more than our mother tongue; it is a rare national asset that underpins our unity, identity, and shared destiny. ALSO READ: To build Rwanda’s future, start with its first language Ikinyarwanda is the only indigenous or native language of Rwanda. It predates colonial borders, political systems, and modern institutions. It is the linguistic thread that has woven together generations of Rwandans across regions, social categories, and historical periods. In this sense, Ikinyarwanda is not merely a language; it is a foundation of shared national consciousness. Pillar of national unity One of Rwanda’s greatest strengths is the ability of its people to understand one another directly, without translation. This shared linguistic space fosters dialogue, mutual recognition, and social cohesion. It reinforces the idea that, beyond our differences and wherever we may live — in Kigali, in rural districts, or in the diaspora — we belong to the same national community. ALSO READ: Kinyarwanda: What we lose by not speaking native language Language shapes how we think, how we relate to one another, and how we perceive the world. Through Ikinyarwanda, values such as solidarity, resilience, dignity, and community have been expressed and transmitted over centuries. Protecting and promoting the language is therefore not only a cultural act but also a civic responsibility. It strengthens, over time, the sense of belonging to one nation. Transmission to future generations In an increasingly globalized world, multilingualism is an asset, and Rwanda has embraced international languages for education, diplomacy, and business. Yet openness to the world should never come at the cost of weakening our mother tongue. The transmission of Ikinyarwanda to future generations is essential. A child who masters their mother language develops stronger cognitive foundations and a clearer sense of identity. More importantly, they inherit a worldview embedded in proverbs, oral traditions, poetry, songs, and collective memory. If we fail to intentionally preserve and promote Ikinyarwanda — in homes, schools, media, arts, and digital spaces — we risk eroding a central pillar of our national identity. Language loss is not only a linguistic issue; it is cultural and historical. Once weakened, it cannot easily be restored. Ikinyarwanda as cultural heritage Ikinyarwanda carries Rwanda’s intangible cultural heritage. Its proverbs encapsulate wisdom refined over generations. Its oral literature tells the story of who we are, where we come from, and what we value. Its expressions reflect social norms, humour, diplomacy, and conflict resolution practices that are uniquely Rwandan. Safeguarding Ikinyarwanda means safeguarding this heritage. It ensures that future generations can access the depth of meaning embedded in their own language, rather than encountering their culture only through translation. A language is not simply a tool; it is a living archive of memory and identity. Collective responsibility Promoting Ikinyarwanda should not be seen as nostalgia or resistance to globalization. It is a strategic choice for sustainable nation-building. Unity, identity, and cultural continuity are long-term investments that require deliberate care. Policymakers, educators, parents, writers, artists, and members of the diaspora all have a role to play. Strengthening Ikinyarwanda in early education, encouraging high-quality publications, supporting creative industries, and expanding digital content in the language are practical steps that can reinforce its vitality. Rwanda is fortunate to possess what many nations seek: a single indigenous language that unites its people. Protecting Ikinyarwanda is therefore not only about honouring the past; it is about securing the future. In doing so, we reinforce the enduring truth that, wherever we live, we are one people, bound by a common language and a shared destiny. Amb. Robert Masozera is the Director General of Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (Inteko y’Umuco).
