Wikitongues and Edo State Library Board Support Edo Language Revitalization Project

Language revitalization has become an urgent and critical task to maintain and preserve the cultural and historical heritage that endangered languages embody. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) reported in 2011 that approximately 2,500 languages are at risk of extinction, with a significant percentage of these languages originating from Africa, reflecting the continent’s rich linguistic diversity. In Nigeria alone, over 500 languages exist, yet many are endangered due to factors such as globalization, a declining number of speakers, and the dominance of widely spoken languages like English, Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo and Pidgin. This growing threat underscores the necessity of preserving and revitalizing other languages in the country, such as the Edo Language.

Collaborative Efforts to Revitalize Edo Language

The Edo language, spoken by the Edo ethnic group in Southern Nigeria, is not just a means of communication but a vessel of cultural identity and tradition. Recognizing the threat of language extinction, 2024 marked a significant year for the Edo language as it received support from Wikitongues, through its Language Revitalization Accelerator Program. This support contributed to the development of the Edo Language Wikipedia in Incubator as well as building of capacity of native Edo Language speakers. In the same vein, the Edo State Library Board helped in organizing local meet-ups and training sessions for native speakers. These capacity-building initiatives empower Edo residents and speakers to contribute content to Wikipedia, thereby preserving their language in the digital space. As part of these revitalization and preservation efforts, the Edo Language Wikipedia has been established in Wikimedia Incubator, with ongoing training sessions aimed at enabling community members to share their local expert knowledge on the platform.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Wikitongues and the Edo State Library Board represents a promising and impactful approach to language revitalization. By integrating international expertise with local knowledge and resources, this initiative not only aims to preserve the Edo language but also to empower the Edo community to take pride in and sustain their linguistic heritage. As this project progresses, it offers a blueprint for similar efforts globally, showcasing the profound impact of collaboration in safeguarding our world’s cultural and linguistic diversity.

A Call to Action

The sustainability of this project relies heavily on community involvement and collaboration. We therefore call upon all Edo native speakers, writers, and enthusiasts worldwide to join this noble cause by contributing to the Edo Language Project in Incubator. Together, we can ensure that the Edo language not only survives but thrives, enriching future generations with its unique cultural heritage. Your participation can make a lasting difference—join us in this vital mission today.