Africa-Press – Gambia. The Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), led by Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda, has officially launched a new Local Language Section at the Kanifing Municipal Library. The inauguration ceremony, held on Saturday, marks a significant step in the Council’s ongoing efforts to preserve indigenous languages and promote cultural heritage through education.
The new section features two prominent African writing systems: ADLaN, the script for the Fula language, and N’Ko, used for Manding languages, including Mandinka. A selection of literature in various local languages is now available, making the library a more inclusive space for native language speakers and learners.
ADLaN, a script developed specifically for Fula—a language spoken by millions across West and Central Africa—has gained traction in recent years as a tool for improving literacy and preserving linguistic traditions. Similarly, the N’Ko script, created in 1949 by Guinean scholar Solomana Kanté, unifies the Manding languages under a common writing system. The word N’Ko means “I say” across all Manding dialects and is widely regarded as a symbol of cultural pride and unity.
Speaking at the event, Mayor Bensouda highlighted the significance of embracing indigenous identities through language.
“Language carries meaning; meaning gives identity, and identity gives confidence. To seize our future, we must embrace who we are as a people. Today was a day for the ages, and what made it more beautiful is that the Mandinka and Fulani peoples came together in one event to celebrate one another in their quest to rediscover and strengthen the Gambian identity as a mesh of our rich and beautiful cultures with Language at its nucleus,” he said.
Prominent linguist and PDOIS party member Sidia Jatta praised the initiative as a milestone for language inclusion in The Gambia.
“I have never seen such a building in this country. This is a huge progress. The introduction of the local language section is a huge achievement. I started my education with my father’s language before studying the English language,” he said.
The President of N’Ko Gambia also commended the Council, expressing deep appreciation for its dedication to celebrating and institutionalizing the nation’s linguistic diversity.
The event was attended by a special guest of honor from Guinea, members of ADLaN schools, cultural advocates, and dignitaries, all of whom applauded Mayor Bensouda’s vision and commitment to cultural development.
The inclusion of traditional languages in public institutions such as libraries is widely seen as a powerful move toward preserving heritage, enhancing literacy, and promoting national unity.
For More News And Analysis About Gambia Follow Africa-Press
