Why Silozi Radio Service?

As a regular listener of the NBC’s Silozi Radio Service, I have realised that many other listeners share my opinion of the service’s use of Silozi as the only language.

I, and many others, am not in favour of Silozi as the only language on our radio service. First of all, Silozi is historically a foreign language and was adopted from Zambia way back.Secondly, less than 20 per cent of the Caprivi population are part of the Silozi ethnic population and most speak other home languages such as Subia, Sifwe, Yeyi and Mbukushu to mention but a few.Silozi is one of the smallest language groups in Caprivi, so why do we have to endorse it at the detriment of languages that are rightfully ours? Our children will lose focus regarding their true linguistic identity as long as we continue to promote Silozi over our own languages, since it appears now in schools that Silozi is our first language, while in fact it’s not.Just like any other region, Caprivi consists of a variety of languages that are far more popular than Silozi, and one can’t justify the reason of Silozi being the only language spoken on radio.Silozi is not traditionally Namibian and people lack fluency in speaking it since it is mainly found in schools and not spoken in communities. Even the NBC Silozi Radio staff themselves speak it with great effort. Why are we so happy to adopt a language and make it official to the detriment of our beloved languages of origin? Is it because it is the only written indigenous language in the region? If yes, then is it too late to rectify that?My suggestion is that every Caprivian should be allowed to speak the language of his/her choice on radio (of course including Silozi) since that will improve people’s understanding of each other’s languages in the region.I guess everyone would like to express him/herself in the language he/she is most fluent in. My opinion is not in any way politically influenced but is about claiming the cultural diversity of all Caprivians. After all, a language is a key dimension of one’s culture. So let other languages be accommodated too. Vinea Nkunyu-Simataa Sinalumbu Note: Letter shortened – Newsdesk

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.

The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.