Tanzania

Study

Language

While many Tanzanians, especially in tourist areas, speak English, knowing a few Swahili phrases can go a long way in smoothing your travels and giving you entrée into the culture. While the language may seem daunting at first, its structure is regular and pronunciation is straightforward, and it shouldn’t take long to master greetings, numbers (useful for negotiating with market vendors and taxi drivers) and other basics. Greetings in particular are essential, and any efforts you make will be greatly appreciated.

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Language

Tanzania is the best place in East Africa to learn Swahili. Schools (many of which can arrange home stays) are listed below. Also see the Kiswahili Home Page (www.glcom.com/cyberswahili/swahili.htm) and the Kiswahili Resource Page (www.unb.ca/web/civil/dccchair/dmm/swahili.html). Another contact is Riverside Campsite in Iringa.

ELCT Language & Orientation School (www.studyswahili.com; Lutheran Junior Seminary, Morogoro)

Institute of Swahili & Foreign Languages (024-223 0724, 223 3337; takiluki@zanlink.com; PO Box 882, Zanzibar, attn: Department of Swahili for Foreigners; Vuga Rd, Zanzibar Town) Also see ­www.glcom.com/hassan/takiluki.html

KIU Ltd (022-285 1509; www.swahilicourses.com) At various locations in Dar es Salaam, plus branches in Iringa and Zanzibar.

Makoko Language School (028-264 2518; swahilimusoma@juasun.net) In Makoko neighbourhood, on the outskirts of Musoma; also see ­www.stgertrude.org/frben/makoko/makoko.htm

MS Training Centre for Development Cooperation (027-255 3837/8; www.mstcdc.or.tz) About 15km outside Arusha, near Usa River.

University of Dar es Salaam (022-241 0757; www.udsm.ac.tz/kiswahilicourses.html)

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