Factors Influencing Language Shift: A Case Of Iraqw

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to investigate factors influencing language shift from Iraqw to Kiswahili. The study was conducted in Hanang district at Measkron ward. Three villages were selected within the ward to get the respondents for answering the research questions. These are: Measkron, Getaghul and Mara. This study was guided by Gaelic Arvanitika Model under Causality based perspective. In order to fulfill the aim of the study, specific objectives were set. These are: to examine the domains of Iraqw language use; to examine Iraqw speakers‟ attitudes towards their native language, and to investigate the factors facilitating language shift from Iraqw to Kiswahili.

This study used both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. The quantitative data were collected through questionnaires from 135 respondents within the study area while the qualitative data were collected through interviews from 05 participants. The data collected through questionnaires were analyzed quantitatively while the ones gathered through interviews were analyzed qualitatively.

The findings of the study revealed that the majority of the respondents use Kiswahili in domains such as religion, schools, hospitals, markets and village meetings while Iraqw language is maintained in homes, with friends, relatives, working places and in ritual practices. The majority of the respondents show positive attitudes towards their native language. The study revealed various factors contributing to language shift from Iraqw to Kiswahili. These are: education, inter-linguistic marriages, religious practices, internal migration and bilingualism. The study recommends language scholars to document more on ECLs like Iraqw so as to rescue them from shifting and dying.