Amid growing concerns over code-switching and the gradual erosion of Ikinyarwanda in the digital age, the Rwanda Cultural and Heritage Academy (RCHA), in partnership with the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, has launched an ICT terminological dictionary in Ikinyarwanda (Inkoranyamuga) to promote the use of the native language in technology and research. ALSO READ: What we lose by not speaking native language The initiative aims to strengthen the use of Ikinyarwanda in information and communication technology (ICT), standardise terminology, and support its effective use across sectors. Officials emphasised that Ikinyarwanda has the capacity to evolve and remain relevant, even as technology continues to reshape communication and business practices. ALSO READ: Ikinyarwanda: A rare national asset worth protecting The 274-page dictionary, unveiled on March 27, contains over 1,700 ICT-related terms, with more than 70 percent already in use within the field. Work on the publication began in 2023, and its launch coincided with celebrations of International Mother Language Day 2026. According to RCHA, the dictionary is designed to enrich the language and enable Rwandans to access appropriate terminology in ICT using Ikinyarwanda. As part of enriching Ikinyarwanda, this ICT dictionary will help Rwandans discuss technology-related topics without lacking appropriate terms in their native language. It will also enhance people’s understanding of ICT knowledge, especially in areas related to computers and associated technologies. Additionally, the dictionary supports the broader initiative of integrating Kinyarwanda into technology. Some of the terms included are Itangazabumenyi koranabuhanga (ICT), Ikoranabuhanga rya mudasobwa (computer hardware), Ikoranabuhanga rya murandasi (internet technology), Itumanaho koranabuhanga (telecommunication), and Ubwenge buhangano (artificial intelligence). Others include Mugabuzi (server), Imbeba (mouse), and Ishakisho (search toolbar). “It is clear that much of today’s activity takes place online. Some terminologies are complex, which reflects the nature of Ikinyarwanda,” said Amb. Robert Masozera, the Director General of RCHA. “Many of these terms have been in use for a long time. We have also introduced new ones and adapted others from the regional context,” he added. RCHA, in collaboration with the ICT sector, plans to integrate the dictionary into schools through partnerships with relevant institutions to ensure widespread adoption. Eraste Rurangwa, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, said the dictionary provides standardised terminology, addressing inconsistencies where individuals previously coined their own terms. He added that with the rise of artificial intelligence, existing tools have not always offered accurate translations, making this initiative timely. “This is a significant step. We will continue updating the dictionary as technology evolves,” Rurangwa said. “It will also be made available in digital formats to ensure accessibility across the country.” He noted that while some platforms such as X and Instagram support Kinyarwanda translation, others like Facebook do not fully. The Ministry plans to engage tech companies to expand integration of Ikinyarwanda across digital platforms. Officials also indicated that additional dictionaries are needed to further enrich Ikinyarwanda in sectors such as health, environment, security, and trade, which are next on the agenda.
