Somali Linguist Warns of Serious Decline in the Somali Language

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Renowned Somali linguist and cultural scholar Abdalla Omar Mansuur has issued a strong warning over what he describes as a widespread deterioration of the Somali language, saying it is facing multidimensional challenges that require urgent intervention.
The professor noted a visible decline in the structure and usage of the mother tongue, arguing that Somali is experiencing weaknesses in spelling, grammar, and everyday application. He described the situation as a serious threat to the language’s continuity and development.
“The Somali language has suffered damage in every aspect, including its structural system,” he said, emphasizing that the mother tongue requires deliberate promotion and sustained revitalization efforts. He expressed particular concern about the declining use of correct Somali among younger generations.
Mansuur identified three key factors that he believes are contributing to the weakening of the language.
First, he pointed out the growing tendency to use foreign terms when stating numbers instead of Somali equivalents. According to him, this practice undermines fluency and limits the expansion of Somali vocabulary.
Second, he cited the abandonment of proper Somali orthography, with increasing substitution of Somali letters with English spelling conventions. He warned that this trend harms the integrity of the official writing system.
Finally, he highlighted the practice of writing Somali personal names using foreign spellings, cautioning that this could erode accurate name forms and weaken linguistic identity.
Professor Mansuur called on educational institutions, media organizations, and the broader public to take collective responsibility for preserving and advancing the Somali language. He urged stronger emphasis on teaching correct spelling and encouraged consistent use of Somali in both official and public spaces.