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Alphabet, the parent company of Google, has announced an extensive update to Google Translate, introducing 110 new languages to the platform.
This update represents the largest language expansion in the history of Google Translate. Among the newly added languages is Dholuo, widely spoken by the Luo tribes across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Sudan.
Isaac Caswell, an engineer on the Google team, expressed enthusiasm: “Excited to announce that 110 languages got added to Google Translate today! Time to provide context on these languages, especially the communities who contributed significantly over the past few years, including Cantonese, NKo, and Faroese volunteers.”
Caswell clarified that for languages with dialects, variations, and diverse spelling standards, Google Translate usually prioritizes the most widely used variety found online. Nevertheless, it also incorporates a mix of different varieties as necessary to ensure comprehensive language coverage.
He added, “The models may make occasional errors in translation, but each one has undergone testing and evaluation with native speakers. Most of the time, they are generally reliable and accurate, and community members have emphasized their usefulness!”
Kenyans have expressed varied reactions following Google Translate’s incorporation of Dholuo.
Many Kenyans have reacted positively to the update, while others have urged the company to include all Kenyan ethnic languages in Google Translate.
Simon Kimani humorously commented, “As I always say, Luo is not just a tribe; it’s a living system that requires regular updates! Yawa, I am Luo by handshake, hustle like a Kikuyu, and live like a Luo.”
David Love requested, “This is a good move; they should integrate all our ethnic languages, just like foreign languages.”
Jl Letuya remarked, “Now learning the Luo language is easy. I was planning to marry a Luo lady to understand the culture, but now that I can learn online, my mission is canceled!”
Fredrick Odhiambo Was Hsc commented humorously, “Donge, they are laying the groundwork for the upcoming chairman of AUC, Raila Odinga. Everything will be in Europe, his address in the assembly will be in Luo, and you must wear those earphones for translation.”
Cherop Nelly expressed her support, saying, “Who doesn’t support the Luo? Those people are pure gems. By the way, Luos are very good people. They are often misunderstood as being violent. Live with them, and you will discover their pure hearts.”
