Ghanaian Wikimedia Languages Organisers First Mini-Conference
Ghanaian Wikimedia Languages has organized its maiden mini-conference in Tamale to bring together indigenous languages on Wikipedia in Ghana
The two-day event was organized purposely to foster a sense of belonging among participants and enhance their confidence in digitizing their languages as a means of safeguarding them from disappearing.
A group of approximately 70 Wikimedians representing nine Ghanaian language communities including Fante, Twi, Ewe, Dagare, Ghanaian Pidgin, Gurune, Dagare, Kusal, and Moore collaborated to address the digital gap caused by language barriers.
During the event, participants actively engaged in dialogues focused on enhancing the visibility of their languages within their respective Wikipedia communities. Additionally, they discussed strategies and initiatives to improve the quality and accessibility of information through Wikidata.
During the event, the nine communities took the opportunity to share their success stories, discuss the challenges they have encountered and outline their plans for the future.
Mr. Michael Awimbilla, a member of the Kusaal Wikimedia Community encouraged participants to embrace and take pride in using their indigenous names, as these names truly reflect their authentic identities.
Mr. Awimbilla further urged the editors to consider naming their children with local names, thereby preserving the cultural values and traditions of their communities for future generations.
“It’s unfortunate that some people’s names can’t be easily identified as to where they’re coming from. All three or four names are foreign, with no traces of where they came from. The first step is to start giving local names to your children” Mr. Awimbilla said.
Ms. Abigail Afi Gbadago a member of the Ghanaian Pidgin Wikimedia Community shared her personal experience during the event. She highlighted how her mother’s use of the local language in her upbringing greatly contributed to her deep appreciation for her indigenous language.
Mr. Sadik Shahadu, the founder of the Dagbani Wikimedians User Group, emphasized the importance of collaboration and mutual support among the editors. He encouraged them to value other varied perspectives and experiences from other languages.
By : Emmanuel Gyan
