International Soninke Language Day is an international day celebrated annually on September 25 to celebrate the Soninke language and cultural heritage. This day was established to promote the preservation and dissemination of the language and to strengthen cultural ties between communities.

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History

The UNESCO General Conference, at its 42nd session, declared September 25 as International Soninke Language Day upon the proposal of The Gambia. This decision is based on the proposal approved at the 217th session of the Executive Board (217 EX/Decision 39). The choice of the date is linked to the official declaration made by the APS (Association pour la Promotion de la Langue et de la Culture Soninké) for the Soninke community in Europe.^【1】 

Geographical Distribution and Speakers

Soninke is spoken by approximately 1.5 million people. The language is particularly widespread in Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Mauritania, and Senegal; it is also spoken in Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast. Outside Africa, Soninke communities are settled in Australia, Canada, France, Spain, Switzerland, and the United States.^【2】 

Language Family and Cultural Significance

Soninke belongs to the Mande language family, which forms a branch of the Niger-Congo language family. Spread throughout history by migration, travel, and trade, the language has served as a bridge between communities, playing a role in supporting cultural interaction and peace. A proverb in its oral literature reflects the historical importance of this cultural bond: “Dalla gumme ya mpasu Kalle nga” (“It is better to work abroad than to die at home”).

Events and Celebrations

International Soninke Language Day is celebrated with events at the UNESCO Headquarters and on various platforms around the world. These events include opening ceremonies, ministerial-level symposiums, exhibitions and photo displays, literary areas, thematic panels, sharing the experiences of young Soninke speakers, and the launch of a French–Soninke dictionary. Gala concerts feature traditional griots, modern and traditional singers, and fashion shows showcasing Soninke culture.

The theme of the second International Soninke Language Day, celebrated at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris in 2025, was “The Impact of Digital Technologies on the Preservation and Promotion of the Soninke Language.” The events highlighted the role of digital innovation and connectivity in preserving and promoting the language.

Global Context

The Soninke language contributes to the preservation of cultural diversity among the more than 2,000 native languages spoken on the African continent. The promotion and preservation of the language is in line with the African Union's Agenda 2063 and UNESCO's Global Priority Africa goals.