Unveiling the Karanga Tongue

A journey into the heart of Zimbabwean language and culture. Explore its history, unique features, and lasting impact.

LIFE Photo Collection

Moro!

"Moro", pronounced "Mor-oh" is a common way to say hello in Karanga, an endangered language of Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe Ruins by N R Farbman LIFE Photo Collection

Karanga is a Bantu language of Zimbabwe

Discover the Karanga language, spoken primarily in Zimbabwe's Masvingo Province. Learn about its unique characteristics and cultural significance.

There are several dialects of Karanga, including:
* Karanga proper: Spoken in the Masvingo Province of Zimbabwe* Manyika: Spoken in the eastern parts of Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
* Ndau: Spoken in the southeastern parts of Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Zimbabwe Ruins by N R Farbman LIFE Photo Collection

Karanga: Names & Variations

Karanga, also known as Kalanga, ChiKaranga, or TjiKalanga, is a dialect of the Shona language family. Its variations reflect a rich linguistic history.

Zimbabwe Ruins (1947-01) by N R Farbman LIFE Photo Collection

Karanga Speakers

There are about 1.5 million to 3 millino speakers of Karanga.

Zimbabwe Ruins (1947-01) by N R Farbman LIFE Photo Collection

Karanga Sounds

The Karanga language boasts a diverse range of sounds, including unusual consonants like palatalized, velarized, aspirated, and breathy-voiced sounds, as well as whistled sibilants.

Credits: Story

Chenai Nezungai contributed to this story.

Credits: All media
The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
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