The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development has officially announced Uganda’s International Mother Language Day celebrations, set to take place at Makerere University Main Hall on Friday, February 20, 2026.
The annual observance, held globally on February 21, is recognized by UNESCO to promote linguistic diversity, multilingualism, and the protection of mother tongues.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Ministry, Minister of State for Gender and Culture Affairs, Peace Mutuuzo, highlighted the theme for this year: “Languages Matter: Harnessing technology to document and develop Uganda’s indigenous languages.” She stated that mother tongue education is essential for quality learning, cultural preservation, and the safeguarding of Uganda’s rich linguistic heritage.
“In Uganda, pupils are instructed in their mother tongue until Primary Four. This approach is embedded in the government’s early childhood education policy and extends to the teaching of mother languages in primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions,” Mutuuzo said.
The celebrations, organized in partnership with Makerere University and coordinated through the School of Languages, Literature and Communication, aim to showcase achievements in mother language education, with a focus on Lusoga. The event will also provide a platform for scholars, policymakers, cultural leaders, researchers, educators, translators, and interpreters to engage in discussions on language education, cultural preservation, continuity, and technological innovation.
Key objectives of the celebration include:
Joining the global community in commemorating International Mother Language Day.
Exhibiting research outputs and publications on Uganda’s indigenous languages.
Convening linguists and language stakeholders to deliberate on issues of linguistic and cultural diversity in Uganda.
Launching the teaching of Lusoga at Makerere University, a historic milestone in Uganda’s academic and cultural landscape.
The Ministry announced that His Majesty the Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope IV, will grace the occasion as Guest of Honour. The event’s main activity will be the launch of Lusoga at the School of Languages, Literature, and Communication, marking a major step in preserving and promoting the language in academia.
Mutuuzo also acknowledged the contribution of partners, including the Ministry of Education and Sports, cultural institutions, the National Curriculum Development Centre, and educational institutions, particularly Makerere University, for providing curriculum, resources, and support for the Lusoga program.
“This initiative raises the profile of Lusoga and ensures that Uganda’s indigenous languages remain vibrant, respected, and integrated into education, governance, and cultural life,” the Minister said.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Uganda’s linguistic heritage, emphasizing that indigenous languages are foundations for cultural identity, social cohesion, and inclusive national development.