The Languages of Africa

The continent of Africa is home to over 2,000 languages and dialects. Traveling the continent of Africa would prove to be a linguistic challenge. I do not expect all the people I come in contact with to speak my language. I do not expect them to want to learn my language either. From my previous travels in Europe, I experienced the importance of countries retaining their national language and traditions. While I will be teaching English to children in Tanzania, I in no way feel as though everyone should learn and speak English. Learning a language should never be forced. And so, this belief I will bring with me to Tanzania.


Just recently for Christmas I received "Living Language, Swahili for Beginners". As a visitor in Tanzania, I believe that it is my duty to learn phrases in Swahili (the more the better!). As Americans, we are often stereotyped as being completely ethnocentric. I vow to not let this be the case. Where ever I go and who ever I meet, I break down this American stereotype one place and one person at a time. It is my hope that other travelers and followers of this blog will also see the importance of accepting the ways and traditions of other cultures. The uniqueness, the beauty and the history we should never harm.




Spoken Languages Around Africa





National Languages

Thank you. Asante.

Hujambo,

Thank you for supporting my trip to Bagamoyo, Tanzania! I am ever so thankful for your encouragement and help financially.

The dates of my trip have not been finalized yet, but when they are, I will be sure to let everyone know.

Until my departure I will be attending weekly group meetings at the Center of Service and Civic Engagement at Champlain College. Before the winter vacation we brainstormed group fund raising ideas and chose research topics. I will be educating the other member of the group about the United States current relations with the government of Tanzania and the people.

I hope that through my posts you will become a part of my experience and learn along side me!


-Nicole

Map of Tanzania

Bagamoyo is 46 miles (75 kilometers) north of Dar Es Salaam