From Words to Action: Translation as a Catalyst to Sustainable Health Development

Abstract

This study investigates how translation functions not merely as a linguistic exercise but as a transformative tool that facilitates knowledge transfer, cultural inclusion, and equitable access to information. It argues that translation practices can support global initiatives related to climate action, artificial intelligence, social justice, education, and public health (the focus of this study). Through the lenses of the functionalist approach, the research has analysed qualitative, quantitative and mixed data collected from participants and documentary sources involving multilingual dissemination of malaria public health campaigns in Togolese context with reference to French, Ewe and Kabiye.  The analysis of the data proved that translation serves as a mediator and an amplifier of sustainable development efforts especially in the public health campaign domain. it has also found that translation is a powerful transformative tool with regard to public health decisions. Definitely, this study favours a strategic rethinking of translation as a dynamic force that can successfully bridge global-local knowledge and empower communities through inclusive communication.