Ndebele

noun. Ndebele a member of a Negroid people of Zimbabwe See also Matabele. the language of this people, belonging to the Bantu grouping of the Niger-Congo family.

One of the 12 official South African languages.
Southern Ndebele, also known as isiNdebele, is spoken in South Africa.
Northern Ndebele, also known as Sindebele, siNdebele saseNyakatho, and Zimbabwean Ndebele, is spoken in Zimbabwe.
Southern Ndebele
- Mother-tongue speakers: 1,100,000
- Second language speakers: 1,400,000
Northern Ndebele
- Mother-tongue speakers: 2,600,000

The Ndebele language of South Africa, also known as isiNdebele, is one of the country’s 12 official languages. It is primarily spoken by the Southern Ndebele people, who are mainly found in the Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and Gauteng provinces. IsiNdebele is part of the Nguni language group, sharing linguistic ties with isiZulu, isiXhosa, and Siswati. The language is known for its rich oral traditions, including storytelling and praise poetry. Ndebele culture is famously represented through vibrant geometric art and beadwork, which often feature prominently in traditional attire and homestead decorations, showcasing the community’s artistic heritage.

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Did you know?

Ndebele people are renowned for their vibrant geometric artwork, which is often painted on the walls of their homes. These colourful patterns are not just decorative but also communicate cultural expression.
There are two major Ndebele groups in Southern Africa—Southern Ndebele in South Africa and Northern Ndebele in Zimbabwe. Despite sharing a name, these languages highlight a rich diversity within the Ndebele identity.
IsiNdebele is deeply rooted in oral traditions, including folktales, proverbs, and praise poetry or izibongo. These oral practices are essential in preserving the language and passing cultural values across generations.
IsiNdebele has faced challenges in terms of representation and use, but there are ongoing efforts to promote it through education, media, and cultural initiatives. Schools and radio stations have increased the use of isiNdebele, helping to sustain its relevance in modern South Africa.