On Wednesday, 16 October 2024, the Association des Traducteurs et Interprètes Professionnels du Congo (ATIPCO) and the Association Sénégalaise des Traducteurs (ASTRA) held a groundbreaking Zoom meeting at 16:00 GMT. Initiated by Eloge Mulumba, ATIPCO member and Head of Public Relations, the event marked the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the capacity of professional translators and interpreters across Africa. This meeting provided a platform for participants to exchange best practices, identify shared challenges, and lay the groundwork for collaborative efforts to elevate this vital profession.

From the outset, the enthusiasm was unmistakable. “I am thrilled to see the many parallels between our two associations and the numerous opportunities for collaboration,” said Mr. Yulu of ATIPCO, setting an optimistic tone for the discussions. Both associations presented their backgrounds, outlined their missions and goals, and shared the progress they have achieved. ASTRA highlighted its partnership with Senegal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to create a framework for accrediting translators. At the same time, ATIPCO emphasised its efforts to strengthen the association’s structure and build connections with academic institutions in the DRC.

A key highlight of the meeting was the discussion around the recognition of the translation and interpretation profession. Both associations faced similar challenges, including the need to boost the profession’s visibility and regulate rates to maintain high-quality standards. “We must be proud of our work and never underestimate its value,” stressed ASTRA member Ousmane, underscoring the importance of fair pricing. The participants also discussed successful initiatives, such as collaboration with UN agencies and standardization of practices, as models to build upon.

The meeting yielded concrete opportunities for collaboration between the two associations. Participants expressed a desire to co-host joint training sessions, particularly on translation technologies, and to share educational resources. “It is our passion for both translation and interpretation that unites us,” noted Alexandra, an ATIPCO member, highlighting the dual expertise that many African professionals possess. The two associations also explored organising joint events, such as webinars and thematic workshops, to raise awareness and promote the profession.

In closing, members of both associations hailed the initiative. They acknowledged that together, they are stronger and better positioned to advocate for the rights of professional translators and interpreters in their respective countries, across Africa, and beyond. Both ATIPCO and ASTRA are members of FIT (International Federation of Translators). The meeting on Wednesday, 16 October 2024, signified a promising milestone in the relationship between the two associations, opening the door to exciting prospects for future collaboration. Members and supporters of both organisations are encouraged to actively engage in this momentum to amplify the voices of translators and interpreters on the global stage.