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 Khoekhoegowab.

The Khoekhoe language or Khoekhoegowab is the most widespread

of those languages of southern Africa which contain many «click»

sounds. It belongs to the Khoe language family, and is spoken in

Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa by three ethnic groups : the Nama,

Damara, and Haillom.

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.

Khoekhoegowab/english for children offers up to 500 common English

words illustrated with their translation in Khoekhoegowab. For

children who are native Khoekhoe 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 Khoekhoegowab 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.