Translation and African development

Abstract

In this article we shall argue that translation may be a crucial component in African development schemes. Given the central role of language in development, the most important question facing African social engineering strategies is therefore whether (a) Africans should resort to using some foreign language(s) such as the languages of the former colonial powers, or (b) some indigenous African language(s) can be used for the development in Africa. Arguing from our translatological perspective (Uwajeh), we propose the ‘translation option’ as a compromise solution to this dilemma.

The article takes up five points: In the first section, it concentrates on the importance of translation for the development of African languages. In the second, translation is analysed as a beneficial influence on African cultural transformation. In the third, it is shown how translation can lead to the educational advancement of Africans. The fourth discusses the impact translation might have on the revitalisation of African mass media. Finally the fifth section emphasises the role of translation in the democratisation process of the African body politic.

The overall concern is to provide a rationale for sound translation policies in African development strategies. Accordingly the concluding remarks recommend the establishment of national translation commissions in Africa.