Why is everything in South Africa in English, while that isn't the main language? [closed]

Why is everything in South Africa in English, while that isn't the main language? [closed] - Close-up Photography of Brown Lion

I have been travelling to South Africa for business, and what strikes me as odd, is that almost everything is done in English, even though English isn't the most widely spoken language in the country (it even seems to be the fourth in people speaking it at home).

I understand you would use English for business with companies in Europe or America, but when checking several online shops, they are all only in English. As a consumer, I'd like to be able to shop or communicate in my own language (whether it be Zulu or Afrikaans, or one of the other nine official languages). Also, many if not all billboards around the country are in English.






Pictures about "Why is everything in South Africa in English, while that isn't the main language? [closed]"

Why is everything in South Africa in English, while that isn't the main language? [closed] - Adult Cheetah
Why is everything in South Africa in English, while that isn't the main language? [closed] - Gray Animal on Focus Photo
Why is everything in South Africa in English, while that isn't the main language? [closed] - Portrait of Giraffe



Why is South Africa so English?

English first came to South Africa at the end of the 18th century during the first British occupation of the Cape (1795-1803). In 1795 the first British administration at the Cape inherited Dutch laws, bureaucracy, currency, and weights and measures.

Why do South Africans want to be taught in English?

Research has shown that English proficiency in South Africa is linked to socio-economic advancement. Another reason for the popularity of English as a language of instruction could be the general lack of school resources and training required for educators to teach in many of the country's African languages.

Why does South Africa speak English and not Dutch?

In 1961, South Africa became a republic and Afrikaans language included Dutch, which was later dropped in 1984. From then until 1994, Afrikaans and English were the official languages of South Africa. After the 1994 elections, English became the main language used in government.

Is English the main official language of South Africa?

English is a prominent language in South African public life, widely used in government, business and the media. As a first language it is mainly confined to the cities. In 1910 English and Dutch were declared the official languages of the new Union of South Africa. English has retained this official status ever since.



Why South Africa is still so segregated




Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Images: Pixabay, Piet Bakker, Lori Glaholm Heron, Magda Ehlers