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Language Immersion Courses in Kenya

About Language Immersion Courses in Kenya

Kenya is a multilingual nation, where more than sixty languages are spoken. However, Bantu Swahili and English are the two main languages that are recognized officially. The Swahili language is spoken in many other countries as well, such as Uganda, Tanzania, Comoros and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Hence, more than 60 million people worldwide, speak Swahili. English has been used as a main language in Kenya, since the British Colonial period. Now, English is used in Kenyan schools and is a language of choice while doing businesses.

Importance of Studying Swahili in Kenya

Swahili is the most prominent and commonly spoken indigenous language in Africa. Those who have a passion for language and those who opt for studying in Kenya can choose to learn Swahili. A point to note is that both Voice of America and British Broadcast Corporation, air radio broadcasts in the Swahili language. Popular singers like Miriam Makeba have sung songs in this language, which can be heard in popular films like the Lion King.

Learning Swahili is a fantastic way to access the Swahili culture a little deeper. Swahili has a long tradition and a distinguished history. Those who wish to do research related to East African subjects can benefit if they learn Swahili, as this can enhance their credibility and understanding of the subject.

Benefits of Learning Swahili

Swahili is a multiethnic language, which infuses many words from different languages, such as Arabic, English, German, Indian and Persian. Learning Swahili can help students and professionals access East African culture. Many people who study Swahili find it useful in the job market, especially in organizations that have projects in Kenya and other East African countries. Learning Swahili is also useful for those with social entrepreneurial goals or those who want to set up businesses in this region.

Difficulty Level of Learning Swahili

Swahili is a simple language, even though it is highly phonetic and has rigid grammar. However, the extensive use of prefixes, suffixes and nouns may make it somewhat difficult to master. 

Where to Learn Swahili

Several language schools in Kenya offer courses to learn Swahili. Students can learn basic courses at these language schools. At the end of a beginner’s course, students are equipped to convey simple messages in Swahili, using basic vocabulary. Those who want to learn conversation Swahili can choose from the numerous Swahili courses that are available online. Intermediate courses help students to speak and write Swahili. They can also learn to read and discuss articles from books and newspapers, for supplementing the classroom education.

Universities and non Government organization in Kenya offer advanced courses in Swahili for research students. The students can learn to interpret written Swahili in political, religious, economic and other areas of interest and express their views on the same.

Apart from this, interactive immersion programs are offered online, which allow students to access the Swahili language and African culture. Swahili language is taught in many countries, including Canada, Mexico, Japan, Russia, India, Poland and Germany. It is offered as a subject of study in many prestigious universities.

The cost of Swahili studies depends on the course and institution selected by the students. The Swahili immersion courses offer interesting subjects like language policies and language planning. Students who want to do research in Kenya or any other East African region can benefit from learning Swahili, no matter what their research area is.