Description

English has been Namibia's official language since the country
became independent. The language was chosen for its neutral character
although there are a lot less English speakers then there are who speak
German, Afrikaans (languages stemming from colonization) and many
other local austral African languages such as Oshiwambo.

Oshiwambo languages are spoken in Angola and northern Namibia,
of which the written standards are Kwanyama and Ndonga.
Over half of the people in Namibia speak an Oshiwambo language
particularly the Ovambo people.

Many children, especially among the most disadvantaged, do not
know any English. This turns out to be an insurmountable handicap as
soon as they start going to primary school.

We think it is vital that these children can become acquainted with
the English language at an early age while maintaining their level of
writing skills in their native language, which they know and speak with
their parents.

Oshiwambo/English for children offers up to 500 common English
words illustrated with their translation in Oshiwambo. For children
who are native Oshiwambo speakers, this book is an essential first
encounter with the English language which will be the language of their
future school and professional life. It may also be of good use to tourists
who are travelling in Namibia and austral Africa and would like to please
their interlocutors by speaking a bit of Oshiwambo with them.

Some people from the city of Otjiwarongo would like to give kids
another chance leading to a better future, and are willing to pass on
their native languages to new generations. This book is the result of
their collaboration with a French volunteer in Namibia and a French
teacher for young children with special needs.