Lingala, an African language born only a century and a half ago, is immensely popular in Africa and around the world. With approximately 20 million native speakers and another 25 to 30 million using it as a second or third language, this language is very present in all areas of life, from politics to culture to music and media. Two countries, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Congo, are the main users, but other countries also use it, including Angola and the Central African Republic.
Lingala became an essential lingua franca thanks to ancient trading languages, such as Bobangi, which were used along the Congo River. As Lingala evolved, it also incorporated elements of languages such as Kikongo, Portuguese, and French, which contributed to its spread throughout the country, as well as across the river in Congo. -Brazzaville.
Congolese music, especially rumba, has also played a crucial role in the international spread of Lingala. Musicians such as Tabu Ley Rochereau, Luambo Makiadi, Papa Wemba and Mbilia belle have popularized this language all over the world. Today, artists such as Fally Ipupa, Koffi Olomide, Lokua Kanza, Maitre Gims and Dadju continue to promote this language.
Despite its immense popularity, Lingala still has a long way to go. Indeed, the absence of an effective linguistic policy hinders its linguistic promotion. Lingala speakers also often have a sociolinguistic complex and grant high prestige to French, the official language of the DRC. Moreover, Lingala is losing its relevance in big cities, where it is often forbidden to use at home and where it is taught less and less in school.
However, efforts are underway to support Lingala in its linguistic development process. Thus, experts are working on theoretical works and educational reference tools to compensate for the absence of a language policy. In addition, the Mbote-Lingala project also aims to promote the teaching and learning of Lingala through the design and distribution of manuals, dictionaries, web and mobile applications, online courses and content on the networks. social.
In sum, although Lingala is already a widely spoken and celebrated language in Africa and around the world, there is still a long way to go to reach its full potential and ensure its survival in the future.