Languages in Botswana

Botswana gives a different kind of welcome to its visitors. It’s quiet, respectful, and rooted in the land. When you step off the plane into the shimmering heat of the Kalahari, it’ll make you want to ground your journey in a local connection.

Understanding the local Botswana language is that direct connection. It’s an act of respect that instantly transforms your journey from a simple visit into a cultural exchange.

But first, the distinctions:

• Botswana: the country
• Motswana: a citizen of the country
• Batswana: citizens of the country
• Tswana: the main ethnic group in the country
• Setswana: the main language

Setswana: The Main Voice of Botswana

The most widely spoken mother tongue language in Botswana is Setswana, with around 78% of the population speaking it.

Botswana’s constitution doesn’t explicitly designate official and national languages, but in practice, Setswana is recognised as the national language, used in parliamentary discourse (along with English), national cultural affairs, and historically as the main language in early primary education.

English functions as the official language because it is used for administration, legal matters, and education after standard two – even though only 2% to 4% speak English as their first language.

So, it can be said that the two official languages of Botswana are Setswana and English. Though English is recognised as one of the Botswana official languages and is spoken widely, especially in tourist centres and major towns, you’ll find that the true heart of the country beats in Setswana.

Your willingness to learn even a few phrases of the main language in Botswana is a valuable gesture.

Pula: More Than Just a Word

No single word captures the soul of the language of Botswana quite like “pula”. It’s a word that is universally revered in what is primarily a semi-arid country.

“Pula” literally means “let there be rain”. It is a powerful plea, a blessing, and a spontaneous burst of hope for life-giving water.

This single word is so vital that it appears on the national coat of arms. It’s also the name of the local currency and the nation’s motto, often shouted out as a rallying cry at football matches when the national team, The Zebras, scores. The feeling behind the word “pula” is one of unity and gratitude.

The Linguistic Tapestry: Unofficial Voices

Ask what languages are spoken in Botswana and how many languages are spoken in Botswana, and you will get an answer of beautiful complexity. Beyond Setswana and English, there are about 20 unofficial tongues.

These are the mother tongues of less dominant groups, such as the Hambukushu, Herero, and Kalanga.

The most extraordinary of these Botswana languages are the Khoisan languages spoken by the San people (Basarwa), famous for their unique use of click consonants.

These clicks aren’t just sounds; they’re complex phonetic features created by a suction of the tongue, giving the speech of the San a rhythm that is unlike anything else you’ll hear. This unique click-consonant structure is a profound part of human linguistic history.

Setswana Phrases: Your Guide to Connection

Learning a few key phrases is your best preparation for genuine interaction. Knowing what they speak in Botswana in daily life and being able to participate is the definition of an immersive experience.

Five essential Setswana words:

• Dumela (doo-meh-lah): Hello, greetings. Use this the moment you meet anyone.
• Pula (poo-lah): Rain, cheers, blessing. A spontaneous, powerful word to express gratitude or joy.
• Ke a leboga (keh-ah leh-boh-hah): Thank you.
• Go siame (hoh see-ah-meh): Okay, fine, that’s alright.
• Tsamaya sentle (tsa-ma-ya sen-tleh): Go well. A warm farewell for someone who is leaving.

Understanding what the official language of Botswana is opens the door, but knowing some phrases provides the key to the warm hearts of the Tswana people.

So, ask what is the language of Botswana, and the answer will be: it’s a greeting, a blessing, and a history.

Inspired by this place? You’ve got a deeper understanding of the languages in Botswana and the cultural richness they represent. Let’s start crafting your Botswana journey now.