Languages of Tanzania Swahili and English

Tanzania is a country of many languages, but the major languages recognized by the state are Swahili, which is the national language of Tanzania, and English, the official language in the state offices. Tanzania also hosts different Indigenous languages from different ethnic groups, some of which include Chagga, Sukuma, Maasai, Haya, and Datoga.

Languages of Tanzania Swahili and English | Indigenous Languages in Tanzania
Maasai Society Speaks Maasai Languge

Tanzania is a country of many languages, but the major languages recognized by the state are Swahili, which is the national language of Tanzania, and English, the official language in the state offices. Tanzania also hosts different Indigenous languages from different ethnic groups, some of which include Chagga, Sukuma, Maasai, Haya, and Datoga.

Tanzania Swahili Language

Tanzania Swahili language is the most dominant language used by Tanzania people all across the country, Swahili language is also used beyond Tanzania's borders in neighboring countries like Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and DRC thus making it the most popular language in African continent even more than Arabic.

Some Swahili words that you will often hear from people's conversations or encounters:

Habari yako: How are you
Kwa heri: Goodbye
Tutaonana: We will see each other
Lala salama: Sleep well
Tembea pole pole: Walk slowly
Hakuna Matata No worries
Safari njema: Safe journeys
Asante: Thank You
Nzuri: Good
Karibu: Welcome
Jaribu tena: Try again
Usiogope: Don't be afraid

Tanzania Ethnic Group
Tanzania Ethnic Group

Indigenous Languages in Tanzania

Many Tanzanians subscribe to their indigenous language, most adult Tanzanians speak Indigenous languages as their mother tongue and Swahili as a second mother tongue, here are some of the major Indigenous languages from Tanzania:

Chagga
Sukuma
Maasai
Datooga
Haya
Digo
Nyakyusa

English Language in Tanzania

English language is not a language that is widely used by many Tanzanians, most of Tanzania treats the English language as a foreign language and you will find a wide use of this language in offices or other education institutions. About 15% of Tanzanians speak English language mostly in urban areas.