Msigwa: Preparations complete for Paris Kiswahili Night

DARES SALAAM:  PREPARATIONS for the upcoming Kiswahili Night in Paris, France have been completed, with all arrangements in place. The cultural event will be held as part of celebrations marking World Kiswahili Language Day.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Gerson Msigwa, made the announcement after inspecting the venue, saying organisers were ready to welcome participants and guests from around the world to experience the richness of the Kiswahili language and culture.

Msigwa said hosting the Kiswahili Night in Paris as part of the World Kiswahili Language Day celebrations carries significant cultural, social, diplomatic and economic value for Tanzania, Africa and the global community.

“The event demonstrates how language can serve as a bridge between nations while preserving identity and promoting international cooperation,” he said.

Msigwa noted that the celebration strengthens cultural diplomacy by showcasing Tanzania’s heritage through music, dance, fashion and traditional performances.

“Such cultural exchanges foster mutual understanding, respect and cooperation among people from different backgrounds while enhancing Tanzania’s image as a nation with a vibrant and unique cultural heritage,” he said.

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Msigwa added that promoting Kiswahili and Swahili culture also creates opportunities for the creative and tourism sectors by giving artists, fashion designers, musicians, writers and cultural entrepreneurs greater international exposure.

“Increased global interest in Swahili culture can attract more tourists to Tanzania and other East African countries, contributing to economic growth and job creation,” he said.

Kiswahili Night will feature performances by MagomaMoto, Remi Tone, Sholo Mwamba, Ramadhani Brothers and Patricia Hillary, alongside a Swahili fashion show, celebrating the diversity and vibrancy of Swahili heritage.

The event forms part of the Second International Kiswahili Conference that runs in Paris, France from July 3 to 7, bringing together scholars, cultural practitioners, policymakers and language enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate and promote Kiswahili on the global stage.