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.