• Africa
• English
• Indigenous
• Minorities
• Multilingualism

The aim of this dissertation is to analyze the impact of English in African multilingual contexts, focusing on its coexistence with minority and indigenous languages from a sociolinguistic perspective. In particular, the study focuses on how English is learned, accepted, and perceived in countries with colonial histories. While English is a language of opportunity, its complex historical legacy can perpetuate inequalities. Therefore, this study examines the linguistic and social implications of bilingualism and multilingualism in contemporary society.
Following its spread through colonization, English has taken on multiple functions in different African countries, interacting with local languages in complex and multifaceted ways. Hence, the co-existence of English with native languages, its impact on social mobility, communication and its role in education will be examined through a comparative analysis. In particular, the educational sphere is of paramount importance for the present investigation, due to its influence on accessing opportunities and social mobility. However, the dominance of English in schools and universities has often overshadowed local languages. This has created a divide between those who have mastered the global language and those who struggle in educational and professional contexts.
The study focuses on three specific cases: Ghana, Kenya and South Africa, chosen for their geographical and cultural diversity and for the different processes of English integration in their respective societies. The findings highlight the dynamics of language power and the challenges of preserving indigenous languages in contexts where English remains a symbol of prestige and opportunity.

The aim of this dissertation is to analyze the impact of English in African multilingual contexts, focusing on its coexistence with minority and indigenous languages from a sociolinguistic perspective. In particular, the study focuses on how English is learned, accepted, and perceived in countries with colonial histories. While English is a language of opportunity, its complex historical legacy can perpetuate inequalities. Therefore, this study examines the linguistic and social implications of bilingualism and multilingualism in contemporary society. Following its spread through colonization, English has taken on multiple functions in different African countries, interacting with local languages in complex and multifaceted ways. Hence, the co-existence of English with native languages, its impact on social mobility, communication and its role in education will be examined through a comparative analysis. In particular, the educational sphere is of paramount importance for the present investigation, due to its influence on accessing opportunities and social mobility. However, the dominance of English in schools and universities has often overshadowed local languages. This has created a divide between those who have mastered the global language and those who struggle in educational and professional contexts. The study focuses on three specific cases: Ghana, Kenya and South Africa, chosen for their geographical and cultural diversity and for the different processes of English integration in their respective societies. The findings highlight the dynamics of language power and the challenges of preserving indigenous languages in contexts where English remains a symbol of prestige and opportunity.