Language Revitalization and Cultural Identity in East Africa: A Case Study of São Tomé and Príncipe

Language revitalization in São Tomé and Príncipe has become a critical aspect of cultural identity preservation as part of broader efforts to revitalize indigenous languages amidst colonial legacies. The qualitative research approach involved interviews with community leaders, educators, and members of indigenous language groups. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions to capture diverse perspectives on language revitalization efforts. Significant themes emerged regarding the direction and proportion of support for language revival initiatives among different age groups and gender demographics in São Tomé and Príncipe, highlighting varied motivations for language preservation. The findings underscore the importance of inclusive community engagement in language revitalization efforts to effectively promote cultural identity and linguistic heritage in São Tomé and Príncipe. Recommendations include fostering collaboration between local communities and educational institutions to develop comprehensive language revival programmes that cater to diverse needs and interests.