UNESCO recognized as a key partner at annual diplomatic gathering

Tanzania’s global leadership in the promotion and international recognition of Kiswahili was prominently highlighted at this year’s Diplomatic Party held on 15 January 2026 in Dodoma, hosted by H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania.

The high-level diplomatic gathering brought together senior government officials and members of the diplomatic corps, providing a platform to recognize Tanzania’s sustained contribution to the development and global visibility of Kiswahili as a language of culture, unity, and international dialogue, closely aligned with UNESCO’s mission on the protection of cultural diversity, multilingualism, and the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage.

UNESCO’s sustained engagement in the promotion of Kiswahili, now spoken by tens of millions of people across Africa and beyond, was recognized as a catalyst of multilateral cooperation and global progress. Kiswahili’s designation as the first African language to be marked with an international day by the United Nations reflects Tanzania’s sustained advocacy and UNESCO’s mission to protect linguistic diversity and safeguard intangible cultural heritage. This recognition underscores the role of Kiswahili not only as a cultural asset, but also as a catalyst for international dialogue, and economic diplomacy supporting trade and investment, tourism development, the blue economy and enhanced regional and global connectivity.

A particularly historic milestone was reached last year with UNESCO’s decision to recognise Kiswahili as one of the official languages of its General Conference… Thank you UNESCO! - H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania

UNESCO was represented by Mr. Michel Toto, UNESCO Representative in Tanzania, who engaged with H.E Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Hon. Thabit Kombo, Minister of Foreign Affairs and East Africa cooperation, Senior government officials, Ambassadors and High commissioners, and Representatives of the United Nations system and international organizations.

The recognition further reinforces UNESCO’s position as a strategic partner to Tanzania in advancing inclusive development while contributing to broader cooperation goals at regional and global levels.