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The Program Manager of the United Nations Association (UNA-Tanzania), Lucas Kifyasi, has called on the government to improve the Kiswahili translation of the National Vision 2050.
UNA-Tanzania is one of the oldest organizations in the country dedicated to promoting public awareness of the United Nations and its agencies.
During his presentation on Friday, January 10, 2025, Kifyasi suggested that the government focus on making the Kiswahili version of the Vision more accessible and understandable. He emphasized that the Kiswahili version would serve as the main reference for implementing the national development blueprint.
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“The government’s objective is to ensure that all citizens, regardless of their linguistic background, can fully engage with the Vision. It is essential to have a version that speaks directly to the people in their language, so that they can understand the path forward and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development,” Kifyasi said.
In addition, Kifyasi raised concerns over inconsistencies in the data presented in the initial drafts of Vision 2050. He pointed out a discrepancy between the economic growth projections in the Kiswahili and English versions. According to the Kiswahili draft, the economy is projected to grow at 6.4%, while the English version suggests growth could range between 5% and 6.7%. This disparity, Kifyasi noted, could confuse readers and create doubts about the document’s accuracy and reliability.
UNA-Tanzania’s call for clarity and consistency in the Vision’s translation comes as part of a broader effort to ensure that Tanzania’s national development plans are inclusive and understandable for all Tanzanians, especially in the context of increasing importance placed on Kiswahili as a unifying national language.
The government is yet to respond to Kifyasi’s suggestions.
