Les défis d’une transition numérique del’interprétation dans les pays du sud : Cas du programme d’interprétation à distance de l’OMS - Région Africaine

Abstract

This study examines the challenges arising from the digital shift in conference interpreting within Sub-Saharan Africa, in the context of the rapidly expanding market of remote simultaneous interpretation (RSI). While RSI was initially expected to broaden opportunities by overcoming barriers such as visa restrictions and logistical hurdles, interpreters in the region continue to struggle for equitable participation in this globalised field. The objective of this research is to identify the root causes of this paradox and assess its implications for training and the post-pandemic market. Adopting a case study approach, the research focuses on the World Health Organisation–Africa Region’s Online Simultaneous Interpreting Programme. A quantitative design was employed, with questionnaires distributed to junior interpreters who participated in the 2025 cohorts to capture data on professional experiences and challenges. This methodology enabled a comprehensive understanding of systemic barriers. Results point to a threefold obstacle that hampers interpreters’ integration within the RSI market. Technically, unreliable internet connectivity and recurrent power failures undermine consistent and flawless performance. Pedagogically, many training programmes failed to adapt and remain outdated, with interpretation laboratories still modelled on traditional onsite practices, leaving trainees ill-prepared for digital settings. Structurally, weak policies, inadequate infrastructure, and limited regulation perpetuate an unsupportive environment for digital professionalisation. Rather than benefiting from digitalisation, interpreters face a deepening digital divide, in a region where internet penetration remains the lowest globally. The study’s relevance lies in its policy implications. Regional authorities are urged to leverage a highly skilled but underutilised workforce capable of contributing to global communication and local economies alike. Moreover, failure to address the technical, pedagogical, and structural prerequisites of RSI hinders regional progress toward four Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).