African Urban History (Planning/Social/Historical/Econ) | 05 November 2004
Afro-Linguistics and Eswatini's African Language Structures: A Qualitative Exploration
M, a, s, h, u, m, i, M, a, s, i, n, g, a, ,, N, k, h, u, m, a, l, o, N, c, u, b, e, ,, K, a, m, a, n, d, h, i, n, i, K, h, u, m, a, l, o
Abstract
The study explores Afro-Linguistics within the context of Eswatini, focusing on African language structures and their significance in understanding linguistic diversity. The study employs ethnographic methods to collect data from interviews with linguistic experts and archival research on historical texts. These methodologies aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the language structures in Eswatini’s diverse linguistic landscape. A significant finding is the presence of a unique consonant cluster pattern in one of the major languages, which has not been previously documented in Afro-Linguistics studies. The research underscores the importance of integrating historical and cultural perspectives into African language studies to enhance our understanding of linguistic diversity in Eswatini. Further empirical research should include a comparative analysis with other Afro-Linguistic studies globally, as well as exploring the impact of colonialism on language structures in Eswatini. Afro-Linguistics, Eswatini, African Language Structures, Historical Linguistics