Namibian Sign Language

A language of Namibia

ISO 639: nbs
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.
Other Comments: Sign language education offered at the University of Namibia.

Location: Scattered.