Bemba

Abstract

Bemba (M42) (iciBemba) is the most widely spoken Bantu language in Zambia. Some 50 per cent of the population use it as either a first or second language. It is used in local courts, churches and as a medium of instruction in the first four grades of primary school in regions where it is the official regional language. The language is also used in both the official and private media, and because of the huge number of speakers, it is the most popular language in the entertainment industry. Native speakers of this language played a pivotal role in the independence struggle from British colonial rule. In post-independent Zambia, three of the six presidents who have ruled Zambia have come from the Bemba language group.