Le ciluba face à l’insécurité linguistique dans les pratiques médiatiques de la Ville de Kananga, en République Démocratique du Congo

Abstract

In a context of linguistic plurality such as that of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), national languages often struggle to establish themselves in formal communication spheres, particularly in the media. In Kananga, a predominantly Ciluba-speaking city, Ciluba, despite being a national language, faces clear linguistic insecurity in media practices. This situation raises significant identity, cultural, and political issues. This study highlights the presence of a diglossic phenomenon, directly linked to the linguistic practices observed in the media landscape of Kananga, a city located in the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo. French holds a dominant position there, regarded as a prestigious language, while Ciluba, the mother tongue of the vast majority of local media professionals, remains relegated to a secondary status. In light of this sociolinguistic reality, it appears necessary to propose concrete measures aimed at strengthening the visibility and vitality of Ciluba in Kananga’s media.