Namibian Sign Language

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A language of Namibia

ISO 639-3
nbs
User Population

8,310 (2008 WFD). Approximately 0.35% of total population. Estimated 18,000 ‘deaf or hearing impaired’ (2010 Centre for Communication and Deaf Studies).

Location

Scattered.

Language Status

5 (Developing). Recognized language (2009, National Curriculum, Basic Education, Sections 4.1.5.1 and 5.5).

Classification
Sign language, Deaf community sign language
Language Use

Used by all. Some also use English [eng] (Mwondela 2005). Some also use Oshiwambo [kua] (Mwondela 2005).

Language Development

Taught in primary and secondary schools. Dictionary. Agency: Centre for Communication and Deaf Studies, Namibian National Association of the Deaf.

Language Resources
OLAC resources in and about Namibian Sign Language
Other Comments

Sign language education offered at the University of Namibia.