Are there fundamental differences between Africans use of language and the way Americans use language?
HD-H: To answer that I first need to clarify that our conditions here in the US are not all that different from the circumstances in any given African country. Our differences are a matter of degree. For instance, in many places, America is a diverse society. But you’d be more aware of this in New York City than in, say, Gainesville. However, a country like Kenya, typical of sub-Saharan nations, is much more diverse than America. The diversity of ethnic groups and language communities is so great that use of language has a qualitative impact on society. Choice of language becomes a socio-political factor quickly and intensely in a place like Kenya. When you and I speak English to each other, the only purpose it serves is to communicate information. As soon as choice of language serves purposes beyond mere communication, it immediately becomes a participant in the socio-political dynamism of the society. Cn: Are most people in sub-Saharan Africa multilingual? HD-H: Yes, they have to be.
