THE TRANSLATION MARKET IN BURUNDI: ORGANIZATION AND REGULATION

Authors

  • Enock HAVYARIMANA Département des Langues et Cultures Africaines, Faculté des Lettres et Sciences Humaines, Centre de Recherche en Langues, Cultures et Sociétés (CRELACS), Université du Burundi (Bujumbura, Burundi) Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71105/3mk3e698

Keywords:

Translation Ethics, Translation Training, Translation Market, Language Policy, Language Services

Abstract

Background: The translation profession in Burundi receives little attention. Objective: The study aimed to examine the organization of the translation market in Burundi. Methodology: A quantitative methodology was employed, involving the administration of a questionnaire to 30 freelance translators and 15 clients via Google forms. Data have been downloaded to Microsoft Excel. Data analysis was made by tabulation of frequencies that were represented by graphs. Results: Results analysis revealed a lack of regulatory standards and the dominance of natural translators in the market. Consequently, the most common language combinations are French-Kirundi and Kirundi-French. Additionally, the estimated monthly translation volume for freelance translators is around 40 pages. It was also noted that the primary clients in this market include NGOs, private companies, banks, and individuals. Lastly, the pricing for translation services is inconsistent, with rates per page ranging from 20,000 Fbu (approximately 7, 14 $) to 30,000 Fbu (approximately 10, 71 $).Conclusion: The translation market in Burundi suffers from a lack of organization and regulatory instruments: In light of these findings, the study recommends that the government establish a national directorate for translation and interpretation, linked to the Ministry of Communication, to oversee language services in the country. Furthermore, it is suggested that the University of Burundi enhance its training programs in translation and interpretation through partnerships with African and European universities specializing in translation studies.

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Published

2025-10-30

How to Cite

THE TRANSLATION MARKET IN BURUNDI: ORGANIZATION AND REGULATION. (2025). Humanities and Social Sciences Series, 22(1), 63-77. https://doi.org/10.71105/3mk3e698

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