International Hausa Day is held on August 26th, celebrating the Chadic language spoken by over 30 million people in Nigeria and Niger. Hausa is also the lingua franca in parts of West Africa. While the observance isn’t official, it gained popularity among academics, the diaspora, and social media users. It was initiated by Abdulbaqi Jari, who works for the BBC Hausa service. He wished to promote the use of the Hausa language online and increase awareness of the history and achievements of the Hausa language.
The Hausa Day, or Ranar Hausa, began on August 26, 2015, when Nigerian journalist Abdulbaki Aliyu Jari proposed using social media to promote the Hausa language, culture, and traditions. The event, celebrated annually on this date, has grown into a global observance that includes academic, cultural, and social media activities to raise awareness and highlight the importance of the Hausa language and the heritage of the Hausa people.
People who speak the Hausa language live in West Africa, primarily in Nigeria and Niger, but also in other countries like Ghana, Benin, Cameroon, and Ivory Coast. Hausa serves as a major language for trade and communication, spoken by over 85 million people, with millions using it as a second language.
Where Hausa is Spoken
Nigeria: and Niger are the primary locations for Hausa speakers.
Significant populations also reside in countries such as Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Ghana, Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire), Mali, Senegal, Sudan, and Togo.
Smaller communities of Hausa speakers exist in other parts of Africa, including Eritrea and Gabon.
The 2025 World Hausa Day, celebrated on August 26, has the overarching aim of promoting and preserving the Hausa language and culture, with specific events and discussions focusing on “Knowledge Production(s)” through indigenous systems and their relevance in a globalized world. The main celebration in Daura, Nigeria, will highlight the history, culture, and language of the Hausa people, fostering unity and global recognition.
World Hausa Day 2025 Report
World Hausa Day 2025 is happening today, August 26, 2025, in Daura, Katsina State. This year’s celebration is expected to draw participants from *24 countries*, showcasing Hausa traditions through music, dance, attire, and cuisine. The event includes¹ ² ³:
– *Cultural Exhibitions*: Highlighting Hausa heritage and its global influence.
– *Intellectual Forums*: Discussions on preserving Hausa culture amid modern challenges.
– *Durbar Horseback Procession*: A cultural milestone established in 2015.
Key Highlights
– *Global Participation*: The celebration has expanded to over 20 countries, including France and Saudi Arabia.
Hausa Language Significance*: Hausa is the 11th most spoken language worldwide*, projected to rise to fifth by 2050.
Convener’s Appeal*: Abdulbaqi Jari, the convener, has called for Hausa to be adopted as a communication medium across ECOWAS countries.⁴
Events in Other Locations
In Ghana, Hausa Youth Ghana is celebrating World Hausa Day 2025 with a month-long series of events in August. Activities include Float and Awareness Campaign August 23, 2025.
Public Lecture*: August 26, 2025.
Cultural Display and Durbar of Chiefs*: August 30, 2025
