SiSwati

noun. Si·​swa·​ti sē-ˈswä-tē variants or SiSwati or less commonly Swazi. ˈswä-zē : the Bantu language of the Swazi people spoken in Eswatini and adjacent countries.

  • The official language of Eswatini (formerly the Kingdom of Swaziland).
  • One of the 12 official South African languages.
  • Alternate names: Swazi, Isiswazi, Ngwane, Phuthi, Tekela, Tekeza
  • Mother-tongue speakers: 2,314,500
  • Second language speakers: 2,400,000

SiSwati, also called Swati and Swazi, is a Bantu language spoken primarily in Eswatini and parts of South Africa. In both countries, Siswati is taught in schools and used in media, ensuring its preservation and growth. As the national language of Eswatini, it plays a central role in daily communication and cultural identity. Siswati belongs to the Nguni language group, sharing linguistic similarities with Zulu, Xhosa, and Ndebele.

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a river running through a canyon with Mafate in the background
SiSwati map

Did you know?

  • The Siswati language is closely tied to the monarchy of Eswatini. The language plays a central role in cultural and national identity, especially during royal ceremonies like the annual Umhlanga (Reed Dance).
  • Siswati belongs to the Nguni language group, along with Zulu, Xhosa, and Ndebele. These languages share similarities in vocabulary and grammar, resulting in some mutual intelligibility.
  • While not as rich in click sounds, Siswati does feature a few clicks, adding a distinctive phonetic element. It is also a tonal language, where pitch changes can alter meanings
  • Storytelling, proverbs, and praise poetry are important components of Siswati culture. Elders use these to impart wisdom, teach social values, and preserve history for future generations.

Siswati speakers, particularly during cultural events, wear vibrant traditional attire such as the emajobo (skirts) and participate in dances like the Sibhaca, known for its rhythmic stomping and energetic movements.

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