Languages Spoken in South Africa

According to data from Oxfordshire County Council  27 languages are spoken in South Africa. In the heart of AfricaSouth Africa stands as a testament to linguistic diversity, boasting a repertoire of 27 distinct languages. This linguistic tapestry is a testament to the country's rich cultural history and societal amalgamation

Main Languages of South Africa

Zulu (22%), Xhosa (17%), Afrikaans (14%), English, Sesotho sa Leboa, Setswana, Sesotho, Tsonga, Siswati, Venda stands as the principal language spoken by a vast majority across  regions. Its prevalence resonates in everyday discourse, education, and cultural spheres, unifying communities within South Africa.


South Africa

Official Languages of South Africa

Zulu (22%), Xhosa (17%), Afrikaans (14%), English, Sesotho sa Leboa, Setswana, Sesotho, Tsonga, Siswati, Venda stands as the principal language spoken by a vast majority across  regions. Its prevalence resonates in everyday discourse, education, and cultural spheres, unifying communities within South Africa.

National & Regional Status

South Africa's linguistic landscape flourishes with diverse tongues that hold regional significance. In  regions, a multitude of languages enjoy official or regional status, embodying the country's commitment to preserving cultural heritage and linguistic identity.


Embracing the Melting Pot

From ancient indigenous dialects to globally recognized languages, South Africa embraces a spectrum of linguistic expression. The intersection of languages within its borders echoes a narrative of centuries-old traditions, historical influences, and contemporary societal dynamics.


Discover the Linguistic Mosaic

Experience the allure of South Africa's linguistic mosaic, a captivating fusion of languages woven intricately into its societal fabric. Explore the nuances, embrace the diversity, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of languages in South Africa.


Which language is spoken in schools in South Africa ?

In South African schools, English is widely spoken as the primary language of instruction. It is used to ensure effective communication and provide access to educational resources for students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Which languages are taught in schools in South Africa ?

Foreign languages commonly taught in South African schools include Afrikaans, isiZulu, isiXhosa, and other indigenous languages. These languages are emphasized to promote multilingualism, preserve cultural heritage, and enhance communication skills among students.

Which language is spoken in media in South Africa ?

English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, and isiXhosa are frequently used in the media in South Africa. Newspapers, TV channels, and radio stations feature content in these languages to cater to the linguistic diversity of the population and reach a broader audience.

Which language is spoken in movies & series in South Africa ?

English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, and isiXhosa are the main languages used in South African movies and series. Local film productions often incorporate these languages to reflect the country's linguistic richness and connect with viewers across different language groups.

Which language is spoken in which region in South Africa ?

South Africa's regions have diverse linguistic landscapes. For example, Afrikaans is more commonly spoken in the Western Cape, isiZulu in KwaZulu-Natal, and isiXhosa in the Eastern Cape. While English serves as a unifying language, regional languages play significant roles in daily communication and cultural expression.