Why are both Swahili and English used in Kenya’s government and courts?

In Kenya, both Swahili and English serve as official languages, a status that extends to their use in the National Assembly and the court system.12

The dual usage of these languages is rooted in Kenya's linguistic diversity and historical development:

• Swahili as a Lingua Franca: Swahili evolved along the coast as a multipurpose language, blending elements of local Bantu languages with Arabic, Persian, Portuguese, Hindi, and English. Because it serves as the primary lingua franca for trade and communication across the country's many ethnic groups, it is essential for public accessibility.2
• English as an Official Language: The use of English is a legacy of British colonial rule, which established the language within the country's administrative, legal, and educational frameworks.2

By utilizing both, the Kenyan government ensures that the legal and legislative processes remain functional through the established colonial-era framework while remaining accessible to the broader population through the widely spoken lingua franca.2