The social significance of English in Malawi

Abstract

This paper demonstrates how the language policy in Malawi has entrenched the hegemony of English over Chichewa and other indigenous languages, especially as it pertains to the official domains of national life. Although both English and Chichewa are official languages, the language policy has created an asymmetrical coexistence between these two languages by favoring English over the latter. The paper presents the current role of English, vis‐a`‐vis Chichewa, based on its functions, range, and depth. The paper further shows that the exclusive use of English in the legislature, the judiciary, and mass media, among other domains, alienates the majority of Malawians who have no facility in this language and consequently limits their political rights in many respects. It is important, therefore, to institute a language plan that can guide the country in sustaining democracy, promoting the vitality, versatility, and stability of indigenous languages, and the rights of their speakers to participate in the national community more effectively.

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