Linguistic Diversity in the Tanzanian 2020 General Elections: Experience from Nyamagana and Misungwi Districts

Globally, multilingual societies face significant linguistic challenges. In these societies, one language often enjoys linguistic freedom and dominance, while indigenous languages and their speakers experience the agony of marginalization. In some communities, indigenous languages seem to be increasingly out of use. In this context, this paper examined linguistic diversity in Tanzania. Linguistic diversity poses significant challenges to equitable voter engagement in Tanzania's electoral processes. This study explores how language impacted the 2020 General Election, focusing on the roles, challenges, and implications of linguistic diversity. Data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and documentary reviews conducted in Nyamagana and Misungwi districts. The findings reveal that while Kiswahili served as a unifying language during the election, its dominance marginalized indigenous language speakers, particularly in rural areas where limited Kiswahili proficiency hindered access to critical electoral information. Respondents emphasised the need for linguistic inclusivity to ensure equitable representation and engagement. The study concludes that integrating indigenous languages alongside Kiswahili in electoral communication would bridge communication gaps, enhance voter engagement, and strengthen the democratic process by making it more accessible to Tanzania's diverse linguistic communities.