Togo launches African-language translations of Equal Earth map
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Togofirst
Togo’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a call for applications to translate the Equal Earth world map into African languages. The initiative is intended to implement a UN General Assembly resolution adopted on 4 September 2026 by 164 votes, according to Togofirst.
Togo’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched a call for applications to translate the Equal Earth world map into African languages. The project includes the names of countries, cities, seas and other geographical features, as well as the map legend and an educational guide, according to Togofirst.
Applications are open to translators, linguists, teachers, researchers, universities, associations and members of the diaspora who are proficient in the languages concerned. The list includes Hausa, Yoruba, Wolof, Lingala, Zulu, Malagasy, Ewe, Kabiyè and Kotokoli; other African languages may also be proposed. A Swahili translation is already under way. The language has more than 200 million speakers.
The ministry plans to offer a flat fee for each language. Assessment will be based 65% on written proficiency, 20% on translation experience and 15% on candidates’ links to the communities that use the language. The translations will also have to include a glossary explaining choices of terminology and spelling.
The initiative aims to implement the United Nations General Assembly’s “Correct the Map” resolution, put forward by Togo on behalf of the African Group and adopted on 4 September 2026. The text, approved by 164 votes, encourages the use of map projections that more accurately represent the relative sizes of continents, particularly in schools, the media and digital platforms.
Summary produced with the help of artificial intelligence tools, under AFREEQUE’s editorial responsibility.
