Celebrated writer is in the country on a tour to promote use of local languagesBy VICTOR OTIENOMore by this AuthorRenowned Kenyan author Prof Ngugi wa Thiong'o believes people who have mastered foreign languages, but are not conversant with that of their ethnic group, are enslaved. Addressing the packed Millennium Hall, Prof Ngugi used metaphors to explain to the audience of his resolve to promote local languages in the country, but was quick to point out that he is not against foreign languages. In his book Decolonising the Mind, the author advocates the preservation of local languages, saying imperialists used their languages to succeed in their push to colonise Africa by "killing" the local dialects. He challenged county governments to channel resources into promoting local languages. If we support our local languages, we will create new people who will conquer the world," he said.

Source: Daily Nation February 05, 2019 21:56 UTC