The Multilingualism Conflict and Conflict Resolution in Africa (MCCRAfrica) project investigates how multilingual practices, language ideologies, and language policies shape the dynamics of violent conflict and conflict resolution, with a focus on five countries: Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Uganda. It draws expertise from researchers across institutions in both Africa and Europe.

Through comparative research in Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Uganda, MCCRAfrica generates new insights into how everyday multilingualism practices can either fuel social divisions or support peacebuilding and conflict settlement.

The project is driven by the recognition that much existing research focuses on single “primary” languages and the lived reality that many people in Africa use multiple languages in their daily lives.

Drawing on theory, existing evidence, and new qualitative and quantitative research, the project also produces a major new dataset for wider use. Working with the ODI Global and impact partners situated in-country, the project aims to ensure insights from the project inform practical approaches to conflict prevention, resolution, and lasting peace.

The project is funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) from 2023 – 2027. It is led by The University of Essex in collaboration with ODI Global and aims to develop new theories and concepts for how multilingualism in practice can affect conflict and promote conflict resolution.