Support for the use of local languages for learning and communication is currently in fashion among national policy-makers in Africa. This position has been promoted by UNESCO and other local-language advocates for years; more recently it is being seen favourably by a range of influential international institutions. However, even positive language policy usually depends on local action to give it shape and sustain it. In many countries across sub-Saharan Africa, community-level institutions--language committees--are taking an active part in a wide range of processes for language development including orthography development, the production of local-language literature, literacy programmes, multilingual education programmes and advocacy at local and national levels. These institutions share a core commitment to seeing increased use and/or recognition of the language of the local community. This paper explores the defining dimensions of local-language committees in sub-Saharan Africa, including their place in the interplay between national policy and local practice. (Contains 1 note.)