Mandarin gains prominence in Djibouti amid growing China-Africa ties
Chinese Language Day highlights Mandarin’s expanding role in education and commerce in Africa
DJIBOUTI, Djibouti (MNTV) — As China deepens its presence in Africa, Mandarin is gaining ground in Djibouti, where it is increasingly seen as a bridge to economic, cultural, and educational opportunities.
Marking International Chinese Language Day on April 20, Djibouti celebrated Mandarin’s growing importance as a global language of diplomacy and trade.
Established by the United Nations in 2010, the day underscores multilingualism and cross-cultural exchange.
Mandarin, the world’s most spoken native language, reflects China’s global influence and is taught in over 70 countries.
In Djibouti, its rise is tied to Beijing’s investments in the nation’s infrastructure and education sectors.
Initiatives such as the Confucius Institute have introduced Mandarin into high schools, complementing the country’s foreign language offerings of English and Arabic.
“Language is a bridge,” said Daoud A., an educational advisor in Djibouti. “Mandarin enables connections across cultures, fostering understanding and collaboration.”
Students learning Mandarin benefit from increased access to scholarships and opportunities in international business.
Annually, over 2,000 African students, including those from Djibouti, study in China, equipping themselves with skills to engage in sectors like trade and infrastructure.
As Chinese investments in Africa grow, from industrial parks to ports, Mandarin knowledge is becoming a valuable asset.
In addition to practical benefits, the language introduces students to China’s rich cultural heritage, including its ancient calligraphy and the modern pinyin system used for learning.
Mandarin’s expanding role underscores the broader trend of China’s integration into global systems, with Djibouti positioning itself as a key partner in this evolving relationship.
For Djiboutian students, mastering Mandarin opens pathways to global opportunities, making it a cornerstone of their engagement in an interconnected world.
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