Cameroon

Ghana

Kenya

Nigeria

Rwanda

South Africa

Uganda

English was first transported to the African continent when English merchants started to establish trading posts along the West African coast and the Cape from the 17th century onwards. When, in 1884 and 1885, Africa was devided by the colonial powers and even more colonies and protectorates were established, the colonizers established their individual nation’s language as languages of administration and, often, of education.

After independence, many countries opted for English as their official or co-official language. English is spoken as a mother tongue by the descendants of the British settlers in various parts of the continent - predominantly though in South Africa, where the number of British settlers was far higher than in other areas. After independence, many countries opted for English as their official or co-official language. English is spoken as a mother tongue by the descendants of the British settlers in various parts of the continent - predominantly though in South Africa, where the number of British settlers was far higher than in other areas.

The vast majority of English speakers on the African continent, however, use English as a second language or a pidginized form of English (in West Africa). Liberia is a special case: the nation was founded by America, which settled freed slaves there.

At present, reviews and exercises as well as film and literature tips are available for the countries listed in the left frame.

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Reviews of available literature on books dealing with this English variety can be found here