Amid signs of change: language policy, ideology and power in the linguistic landscape of urban Rwanda

Abstract In this paper we explore the nexus of language policy, ideology and power in linguistic landscape urban Rwanda. post-genocide Rwanda, English has been promoted gained status. This led to an increased usage on shop signs streets Kigali other towns Rwanda at expense both French Kinyarwanda. Unique quantitative data documented before 2008 are study compared collected 2018, same streets. forms background for analysis official discourse, targeting policy changes, especially after decision appoint as administration well medium instruction throughout educational system from grade 1 on. was made despite fact that a national language, Kinyarwanda, known by 99.4 per cent population. The shows political aspects decisions downplayed. Officially, discursively practice, Rwandan government, is speaking elite power, legitimize their pretending imposing inevitable, pragmatic rational measure economic development. narrative reveals ideas about inherent qualities specific languages while simultaneously discarding others. Additionally, public discourse all four equal. Reality different. society where status only acquired through education used instruction, differences socioeconomic inequalities neglected obscured.