Indigenous Languages: A Pathway to Sustainable Development in Kenya

Abstract

Indigenous languages play a crucial role in disseminating information and fostering sustainable development. While advanced economies like Japan, China, and Korea have successfully leveraged their language policies for economic growth, many African countries, including Kenya, have yet to fully utilize their indigenous languages across key domains such as education, health, agriculture, technology, and culture. This study examines the role of indigenous languages in enhancing sustainable development in Kenya, focusing on attitudes towards their use in education, technology, and local businesses. Data collected from 75 speakers of five major indigenous languages in Kenya reveals valuable insights into the potential of these languages in driving economic development. The study proposes strategies for improving the functionality of indigenous languages and emphasizes the need for tailored language policies to harness the potential of Kenya’s over 60 indigenous languages in transforming the country’s economy.