Mali has introduced a new constitution, which marks a departure from French being the country’s official language since 1960.
The new constitution was approved by an overwhelming majority of 96.91% in a June 18 referendum.
According to reports, French will no longer be an official language, but it will continue to be used as a working language.
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They replace French with their language
Instead, 13 other national languages spoken in the country will be granted official language status.
Among the 13 national languages receiving recognition, some, like Bambara, Bobo, Dogon, and Minianka, had already been granted national language status back in 1982.
This move aims to promote and protect linguistic diversity in Mali, where approximately 70 other local languages are spoken.
What caused it?
The decision to drop French as the official language has come amid a backdrop of growing anti-France sentiments across West Africa, primarily due to France’s perceived military and political interference.
This sentiment started in various actions taken by Mali, such as ordering French NGOs to leave the country in November 2022, suspending French TV stations RFI and France 24, and even expelling France’s Ambassador in January 2022.
Moreover, French troops had already departed from the country in August 2022.
By making this constitutional change, Mali asserts its commitment to its indigenous languages while recognizing French’s historical and cultural significance as a working language.
Reactions: hopefully more African nations will follow
Let’s have a look at some of the comments:
@Daddymo:Why the use of French has been declining in many countries… 💭🤔
@kakaor:it’s remarkable to see Mali asserting its independence & embracing its own cultural identity. Change can be challenging, but it also opens up new opportunities for growth & unity. Wishing the people of Mali a bright & prosperous future! 🇲🇱🙌🏾
@Dennis:I like this, hopefully more African nations will follow.
@kaito: Nigeria removed English as official language, what language would be spoken? 🤔
@Danny:French will be the working language from now on BUT not the official language, and the 13 national languages spoken in the country will also receive official language status.
Adeleke appoints Omishore as special adviser
In another news, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, appoints Bamikole Omishore, an accomplished International Relations and Digital Communications specialist, as the Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Multilateral Relations.
The announcement was made on Wednesday during the official assignment of portfolios to the newly appointed Special Advisers in the state.
Mr. Omishore’s expertise as a master-strategist, tech investor, and real estate investor, has positioned him as a leading advocate for gender equality and youth inclusion in the realms of politics and governance.
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