Lexical Metamorphosis of the Kalanga Language: Towards an Analysis of the Impact of Ndebele Domination of the Kalanga Language

Abstract

This article examines the lexical metamorphosis of the Kalanga language caused by the dominance of the language by Ndebele. It is based on research conducted among the Kalanga-speaking people of Bulilima-mangwe in Matebeleland and argues that because of the domination of Kalanga by Ndebele, the Kalanga language is undergoing a lexical metamorphosis which poses a threat to its survival unless measures are taken to promote and preserve it. Preservation of Kalanga is important, given the fact that language is a vehicle of culture and the death of Kalanga would, thus, spell the demise of Kalanga culture.