An overview on Indigenous languages in Namibia

English was selected as the official language at Namibia’s independence in 1990, to promote national unity among the countries’ linguistic diversity. However, the Namibian Government recognises the significance of preserving Namibian Indigenous languages, supporting efforts in regards to bilingual education, and more specifically Indigenous languages as a medium of instruction in lower primary, as well as multilingualism in the media and cultural sector, while the freedom to use and promote any language has been anchored in the Namibian constitution (Article 19). Namibia is home to a rich tapestry of indigenous languages, which belong to two language families, namely Bantu and Khoisan. Bantu languages are spoken by a majority of the Namibian population, including Oshiwambo, Otjiherero, Rukwangali , RuKavango, and Silozi. They are used in daily communication, traditional ceremonies, local governance, media and in a few schools. The Khoisan language family is notable for the use of click consonants and are among the oldest languages in the world, comprising of Nama/Damara, !Kung,Ju/’hoan, and Naro, among others.

Namibia’s diverse cultural landscape is reflected in its languages. In the South and Central regions, Khoekhoegowab, with its dialects Damara, Nama, and Hai//om, is prevalent. Moving east, you’ll encounter several Khoesan languages, including Naro near the Botswana border, ǃXóõ, Kung-Ekoka, ǂKxʼauǁʼein, Kxoe, and Ju|’hoansi. In the North and Central areas, the Owambo languages dominate, with dialects such as Oshindonga, Oshikwanyama, Oshikwambi, Oshingandjera, Oshikolongadhi, Oshimbadja, Oshimbalanhu/ntu, and Oshikwaluudhi. Towards the North West and Eastern regions, Herero languages are spoken, with dialects like Otjiherero and Zemba. Setswana is also present in some parts of the country. In the Kavango region, languages such as RuKwangali, Thimbukushu, and Rumanyo (Gciriku) are common, while in the Caprivi/Zambezi area, Subia, Mwafwe, Silozi, Kuhane, and Shiyeyi are spoken. Each language reflects the unique heritage and identity of Namibia’s diverse communities.