Tanzania Languages at the Crossroads

Tanzania languages are at a critical juncture. While Swahili has emerged as a lingua franca, unifying the nation, the survival of many community languages is under threat.

The vibrant East African nation is renowned for its rich cultural diversity, which is mirrored in its complex linguistic landscape. According to Ethnologue: Languages of the World, published by SIL International, there are 127 languages in Tanzania. Of these, 125 are living and two are extinct. Of the living languages, 117 are indigenous and eight are non-indigenous. Kiswahili, commonly called Swahili, is the de facto national language, with 47 million speakers, 15 million of which speak it as their first language (L1) and 32 million as their second language (L2).

Swahili: The Bridge Language of Tanzania

At the heart of Tanzania’s linguistic fabric lies Swahili, a Bantu language with Arabic influences. This language has evolved into a lingua franca, serving as the primary mode of communication among people from diverse ethnic and linguistic backgrounds. Swahili’s role as a unifying language is particularly prominent in urban areas and within national institutions.

Beyond its practical function, Swahili carries immense cultural and historical significance. It is the language of literature, music, and poetry, and has played a pivotal role in shaping Tanzania’s national identity.

As defined by Professor Aldin Mutembei, the Julius Nyerere Chair of Kiswahili studies at the University of Dar es Salaam, Swahili is not an ethnic language, but a collection of dialects from the east coast and inland as far as the Congo.

The Challenge of Tanzania Language Diversity

While Swahili acts as a linguistic bridge, Tanzania’s linguistic diversity presents both opportunities and challenges. The numerous indigenous languages, often referred to as ‘community languages’, are vital for preserving cultural heritage and identity. However, the dominance of Swahili and English in education, media, and government has led to a decline in the use of many community languages.

Researchers like Caroline Ulomy, Tanzanian languages expert, have highlighted the underrepresentation of Tanzania languages on social media platforms. This lack of digital space for these languages poses a significant threat to their survival.

Tanzania Languages on Social Media

Ulomy’s research, focusing on language preferences among Tanzanian Instagram users, offers valuable insights into the interplay between language and social media. While Swahili is prevalent, the study reveals a notable absence of community languages. This trend is attributed to the limited support for these languages on social media platforms.

To address this issue, Ulomy advocates for increased visibility of Tanzania languages on platforms like Instagram. By featuring these languages, social media companies can contribute to language preservation efforts and foster a more inclusive digital environment.

Preserving Tanzania Languages Through Education and Beyond

Recognizing the importance of linguistic diversity, Tanzania has made strides in promoting multilingual education. However, challenges persist in ensuring that community languages are effectively taught and valued.

To reverse the decline of Tanzania languages, it is crucial to integrate them into formal education, media, and public life. Additionally, promoting digital literacy in these languages can help create online spaces where speakers can connect and share their cultural heritage.

Tanzania’s languages are a complex and dynamic ecosystem. While Swahili serves as a unifying force, the country’s rich tapestry of community languages is an invaluable asset that deserves protection and promotion.