isiSwati

isiSwati is a Bantu language spoken primarily in Eswatini, formerly Swaziland, and in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa. It is one of the official languages of Eswatini, alongside English, and is also recognized as a scheduled language in South Africa. The name "isiSwati" literally translates to "language of the Swazi people."

The language belongs to the Nguni subgroup of the Bantu languages, making it closely related to isiZulu, isiXhosa, and isiNdebele. This linguistic relationship means that speakers of these languages can often understand each other to a significant degree. isiSwati is characterized by its click consonants, a feature common to many Southern African languages, though their prominence can vary.

The development of isiSwati as a distinct language is tied to the history of the Swazi nation. Its standardization and promotion have been supported by both government initiatives in Eswatini and cultural organizations in South Africa. Educational curricula in both regions include isiSwati, ensuring its transmission to younger generations.

The number of speakers is estimated to be around two million, with a majority residing in Eswatini and a significant population in South Africa. The language plays a vital role in the cultural identity and daily life of the Swazi people, serving as a medium for oral traditions, music, and literature.