Title: Unyeti wa Kitamaduni na Matumizi ya Injini za Tafsiri za Mtandaoni katika Kufasiri Matini za Kiswahili
Authors: Japhael Mgoma Jambo
Volume: 9
Issue: 2
Pages: 263-271
Publication Date: 2025/02/28
Abstract:
Recently, Online Translation Engines (OTEs) have become vital tools for the translation process. This development has been greatly driven by significant technological advancements such as Internet. The aim of this study is to explore the challenges evoked by OTEs in processing translations of Kiswahili texts as far as cultural sensitivity in communication is concerned. This study also seeks to provide recommendations for the optimal use of this technology without compromising cultural sensitivity in translation. The article uses a socio-linguistic theory that reflects cultural sensitivity to demonstrate how language and cultural contexts affect translation outcomes from and into Kiswahili. The article employs a questionnaire as a data collection method. distributed to a sample of various stakeholders (n=37) who use OTEs, via Microsoft Forms. The research results indicate that although OTEs has made the translation process easier and faster, it still faces many challenges, particularly issues with syntactic alignment, logical flow and cohesive errors, ambiguous meanings, and distortion of messages. Generally, this article recommends the updating of OTEs databases in collaboration with language professionals, native speakers, translators, and OTEs developers so as to guarantee effective and productive usage in the field of translation.