Elaka, a free community-driven English to Oshiwambo online dictionary and translation service, has gone live. The platform serves as a translation data collection point using information from the platform and other sources to develop a robust, intelligent machine-aided application programming interface (API) that can be used to analyze and classify Oshiwambo text and speech. The web service is developed to enhance communication and ease the accessibility of information. It allows users to create, moderate, review and save translations from English to Oshiwambo. The community-driven online translations are user-generated and verified. Axel Mukwena, an independent web developer, who launched Elaka in March 2021, says the web exists to combat the lack of well-structured digital platforms to host and improve the accessibility of languages and ultimately encourage the digitization of other local languages. He believes that indigenous languages, such as Oshiwambo, are key to cultural identity and expression and social integrity, and therefore, need preservation and protection. “The motivation has not only been about language and technology but also extensive research and scientific contribution through language digitisation,” he said. The platform's target audience is individuals with an interest in contributing to the development, advancement and organization of the Oshiwambo language. This includes language educators, translators, software developers, computer linguists and organisations. Elaka’s goals include learning and sharing knowledge on an accessible, informative platform to enhance effective communication. Mukwena's initiative also aims to ensure cultural preservation as he feels Namibians have diverted from their traditional norms and languages. The platform also provides an opportunity for software developers to contribute and collaborate in machine-aided language development. Mukwena further hopes to attract individuals, organisations and publishers who have access to translated materials, which can be used to enhance the dataset. Users only need a valid email address to sign up to become either a general user or a moderator. General users can only create, vote, save and report translations. Moderators can edit, delete and verify the correctness of submitted translations. They also review and remove reports or flags on translations. Moderators are selected manually, either with a large number of translation entries, or proof of expertise in both Oshiwambo and English languages. Users can sign up on elaka.io