Global Solidarity Network launches talks series with Swahili language focus
The Global Solidarity Network, comprising 15 diverse projects and initiatives, aims to enhance Egypt's role in global solidarity, particularly in the Global South
CAIRO — The Global Solidarity Network, through its Nasser Youth Movement's Swahili Department, inaugurated its "Global Solidarity Talks" series Wednesday with a session on "The Translation Movement in the Globalization of the Swahili Language," coinciding with World Swahili Language Day celebrations, writes Winston Mwale.
The event, which highlighted Egypt's role in African translation, featured Dr. Alaa Salah Abdel Wahed, a lecturer of Swahili literature at Al-Azhar University and Ain Shams University.
Anthropologist and international activist Hassan Ghazaly, who opened the program, said the talks are part of a series of Swahili-speaking sessions scheduled throughout July.
He emphasized that the program, first launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to promote dialogue among youth from diverse cultures worldwide.
"The program offers Egyptian language students the opportunity to practice with native speakers from Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America," Ghazaly said.
Dr. Abdel Wahed discussed the importance of language learning and translation in cultural exchange. He noted that translating literary works contributes to strengthening cultural identity among Swahili speakers.
"The translation movement between Arabic and Swahili is highly rich, with roots in Islamic productions predating the colonial period," Dr. Abdel Wahed said.
Mervat Sakr, a researcher and translator pursuing a master's degree in African languages, moderated the session.
The Global Solidarity Network, comprising 15 diverse projects and initiatives, aims to enhance Egypt's role in global solidarity, particularly in the Global South.
The network has reportedly benefited about 18,000 young people worldwide through its projects promoting peace, solidarity, and cross-cultural understanding.