Swahili Language Programs

Swahili, or KiSwahili, is the most common language in the African Great Lakes region, including Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.

Kenya. Culturally and geographically, this is a country of stark contrasts, hosting over 45 tribes and 28 million people speaking dozens of languages. Swahili is an official language in Kenya, so almost anyone you talk to will help you practice. There will be plenty to do during your down time, too. Take a swim in Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria, or hike up Mount Kenya, Africa’s second tallest mountain.

Tanzania. Throughout Tanzania, Swahili is quickly replacing local dialects and becoming the main language. If you plan to live, work, or travel in Africa, Tanzania is one of the easier places to pick up Swahili. Hearing English (which happens to be the other official language of the country) can be a relief, and rest assured, you’ll be understood when you’re not sure how to say things like “where is the bathroom?” in Swahili.

Uganda. Both English and Swahili are commonly spoken in Uganda. Other than having blatantly perpetuated anti-LGBT policies, Uganda remains one of the safest destinations in Africa. It’s also one of the most beautiful and packs a punch for its size.

There are several different Swahili language programs to choose from, but each one will ensure you are safe and happy for the duration of your time abroad. 

Popular courses. Many students choose to earn college credits by taking Swahili language courses abroad, which include the usual course hours, as well as opportunities to participate in volunteer projects and smaller group language instruction in some cases. Or, take personally-tailored classes with local language teachers while living with a host family.

What can make your studies abroad more valuable than in your home country? Proverb in Swahili: Habit is a skin. The more you practice a language, the more you’ll learn and retain—and that becomes easier to do when you’re immersed in a Swahili-speaking environment. Outside of class, you’ll get to practice your new language skills as you navigate markets, order food, and interact with homestay families.

Tips to get fluent fast. While Swahili is nothing like English or the Romance languages, don’t be afraid. Here are some tips to help you out! Free websites like Duolingo will make learning Swahili more fun than just scanning through a dictionary. Watching foreign language films (first with the subtitles, then without them) also helps.

One benefit of learning Swahili abroad, rather than at home or online, is that you will get to practice the language with people who actually speak it. Nothing can replace ongoing daily communication in the target language, surrounded by individuals who speak with perfect cadence, pronunciation, and other subtleties that will make your second language sound more natural than robotic. Your ears will be dancing (and not just because those catchy Disney songs are stuck in your head) with Swahili surrounding you daily. To get as much exposure to the language as possible, head to more rural areas—the farther you are from the cities, the less tempted you’ll be to speak English.

One thing to get used to while learning Swahili abroad is the lack of privacy. Curious people will ask you personal questions. A lot of them. Answering questions like “Are you married?” might catch you off guard if you haven’t even started college, but don’t take it personally. As a foreigner, you will automatically be a target for these types of questions, and they will highlight the general curiosity surrounding you. Look on the bright side—you’ll get to share your own culture with people who are willing to listen!