How Swedish researchers are helping preserve Somali linguistic heritage
Source: Hiiraan Online, Friday January 3, 2025
Faysal with Professors George Banti and Martin at the University of Gothenburg. Credit: Supplied
Mogadishu (HOL) — The University of Gothenburg in Sweden has emerged as a global leader in preserving and studying the Somali language, combining rigorous academic research with cultural preservation efforts. Swedish instructors, alongside Somali scholars, are decoding the language’s rich history and structure, ensuring its legacy endures.
The initiative focuses on analyzing Somali grammar, syntax, and historical texts. Swedish instructors work closely with Somali students to explore the language’s scientific foundations. One striking example is the analysis of the phrase “Lala socday” (“It was accompanied”), which highlights the complex grammatical interplay between subject and verb modifiers.
“This is about understanding how the language works at its core, beyond mere fluency,” said Faysal Mohamed Mohamud, a Somali student and instructor at the university. “It’s a scientific approach to uncover the language’s deeper rules and evolution.”
The university also holds a treasure trove of ancient Somali manuscripts, some dating back centuries. These documents, studied collaboratively by Somali and foreign scholars, provide invaluable insights into the language’s origins and its role in shaping Somali culture.
In a unique twist, Swedish instructors are teaching native Somali speakers the academic intricacies of their language. “It might seem odd that a foreigner teaches a Somali speaker their language, but they are teaching its grammatical rules and structural framework,” Faysal said. He noted that these instructors have even corrected official Somali government documents riddled with errors.
“I’ve seen documents from both the central government and regional administrations that were fixed by Swedish experts,” Faysal added.
When asked how such corrections are possible, Faysal replied, “Speaking a language does not necessarily mean understanding it scientifically. Scientifically analyzing a language is entirely different from just speaking it.”
The program also spotlights challenges facing African languages, which often struggle to develop due to limited scholarly attention and the lingering effects of colonialism. Researchers aim to reverse this trend by applying scientific methods, giving these languages a chance to thrive.
The initiative bridges gaps in understanding and highlights the value of Somali as both a linguistic and historical treasure. For a language deeply tied to identity and heritage, these efforts ensure that Somali not only survives but thrives, offering a legacy of resilience for generations to come.
- With files from the BBC Somali Service
Faysal with faculty members and students from the University of Gothenburg.Credit: Supplied