IMPACT OF SHENG LANGUAGE IN KENYA

Abstract

Purpose: the aim of the study is to evaluate the impact of sheng language in Kenya

Methodology: The study adopted a desktop literature review method (desk study). This involved an in-depth review of studies related to sheng language and its effect in Kenya. The research involved literature search and paper review of information on impact of sheng language with respect to the value of archival materials. Where appropriate, the review on how to rethink and reorganize what is being done to solve sheng language challenges in Kenya by policymakers was done.

Findings: Sheng is pervasive among Kenyan youths and they have adopted it as an identity marker. It is a variety that unifies them, creating in-group solidarity against outsiders. Sheng has now transcended socioeconomic class boundaries and is used by many youths irrespective of social class or gender. It is possible for a multilingual society to employ different languages in a diglossic manner and have all of them co-existing and enriching one another as they function in their different contexts. When this is put into practice, then the spread of Sheng’ will no longer be perceived as a threat to the phenomenology of its’ speakers because the users will be able to balance its use and to integrate its values with those they draw from other languages through language enriching process of multilingualism.

Unique contribution to theory, policy, and practice: Sheng’ be nurtured in the same manner other Kenyan languages are nurtured. After all, it has one of the largest and growing speech communities in the country. In today’s world, knowledge societies are pluralistic and inclusive; Sheng’ therefore should be allowed to add another ‘feather’ to the Kenyan pluralistic hat.