(Re)generation of Speech Community

The case of G|ui and G||ana of the Central Kalahari

Abstract

Of Chebanne’s many scholarly contributions, I have been inspired by his work on language use among ethnic minorities. Based on my anthropological research among the G|ui and G||ana, this paper examines the social situations in which their languages are imitated. Through this analysis, I show that not only recording imitable grammar and vocabulary but also maintaining activities and places to use such linguistic resources contributes greatly to the reproduction of the speech community. Furthermore, I will argue that the key to promoting the regeneration of a speech community is to activate language practices not only through formal education but also through informal socialization and nonformal education.