Topic: 2024-Indigenous Languages
Country: Algeria
Delegate Name: Kyra Valeros
Berber, also known as Tamazight, is Algeria’s first and original language, dating back to 2000 BCE, and it has several different dialects. In the 8th century Arabic was introduced and is now Algeria’s main language. About 25-30% of Algeria’s population or 10-12 million people speak Tamazight as their first language. Despite the Algerian war, Tamazight still remains to be spoken among the county. Even though the language has been known to many Algerians, there was no official effort put into preserving the indigenous language.
More recently, Algeria’s indigenous language Tamazight has been made more publicly known.. In 2002, Tamazight was officially recognized as a national language in Algeria, and then made an official language in 2016 by Algeria’s government. There are several radio stations, broadcasts, and TV channels in Tamazight. For example, the Tamazight TV channel that was launched in 2009 and is exclusively Tamazight. It is a part of the state-owned SNRT Group along with Al Aoula, Arryadia, Athaqafia, Al Maghribia, Assadissa, Aflam TV and Laayoune TV. With more recognition of Tamazight in Algeria, it is now being introduced into the education system, with around 300000 students studying the language in schools.
Even with these positive steps, Algeria still has a long way to go in integrating Tamazight into Algerian life. There is more support needed for the Tamazight-speaking regions due to the unequal ratio of Berbers to Arabic speakers. Efforts of continuing the educational programs, broadcasts, TV channels and others are necessary to make the language more known to society. Getting more children to be educated on the topic and getting qualified teachers for Tamazight are important to infuse the language into the educational system. Also, making more platforms for Tamazight to be seen or used, like street signs or books. International cooperations and organizations can help further boost these efforts by providing funds for learning materials, and a national holiday can be made for the Tamazight heritage. WIth more awareness of indigenous languages, countries, like Algeria, can make a rich cultural society, increasing diversity and inclusivity.
