Challenges of using English language in the Tanzanian Agricultural sector: a case study of Maswa and Bariadi districts
Loading...
Date
2013
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Dodoma
Abstract
The study investigated the challenges of using English language in the Tanzanian
agricultural sector and examined the effectiveness of English – Swahili translation of
agricultural information. It was conducted in Maswa and Bariadi districts. It covered
farmers, pastoralists, agricultural officers (AOs), veterinary officers (VOs) and agricultural
input suppliers/sellers (AIS). Semi structured interviews, questionnaires, in depth
interviews and documentary reviews were used as methods of data collection. Through the
use of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and descriptive analysis, the
study revealed that most farmers and pastoralists were not conversant with English
language. They get help of interpreting the information expressed in the language from the
AOs, VOs, and AIS. Inspite of being hampered by both physical and fiscal constraints to
reach them, the AOs, and VOs can do. Many of the AIS can not interprete the English
expressed agro information because the activity of selling agricultural remedies is done by
whoever wanted to earn money from the business. The use of English language in the
sector is also challenged by the sociolinguistic landscapes of Tanzania in which the Ethnic
Community Languages (ECLs) are more dominant in rural areas where farmers and
pastoralists transact their agricultural activities than even Swahili. Lack of linguistic
expertise like improper choice of words, style and mode of presenting the information to
the target audience is another challenge. The foreign status of English in the country
makes it an inappropriate language of use in the sector. The English – Swahili translation
of agricultural information was revealed to be deficient in conveying the intended
information to the target group (TG). Basing on the findings, the study concluded that
English is less appropriate language of use in the sector.
Description
Dissertation (MA Linguistics)
Keywords
English language, Agricultural sector, Tanzanian agricultural sector, English – Swahili translation, Maswa district, Bariadi district, Challenges, Problems, Agricultural information, Tanzania
Citation
Matalu, K. (2013). Challenges of using English language in the Tanzanian Agricultural sector: a case study of Maswa and Bariadi districts. Dodoma: The University of Dodoma.