The Languages spoken in Botswana

The linguistic situation in Botswana is complex and consists of dying languages, expanding languages, a pidgin language, an urban group language and so on. The national language of Botswana is Setswana (Tswana) and it is spoken by 78.2% of the people with minor differences in dialect across the region.

English is the official business language and it is widely spoken in urban areas. Most written communication is also in English. Knowing Setswana is useful as it facilitates easy communication with the people of Botswana and they are usually pleased at the effort.

Other languages are Kalanga spoken by 7.9% and Sekgalagadi by 2.8% of the people.