The Koti language

The Koti language, also known as Ekoti, is a Bantu language spoken in Mozambique by around 100,000 people. It is predominantly spoken in the coastal areas surrounding Koti Island and the nearby city of Angoche, which serves as the capital of the Angoche district in Nampula Province. Koti is a member of the Southern Bantu subgroup, specifically within the Makhuwa language group, and is often considered part of the larger Bantu family of languages.

One of the distinctive features of the Koti language is its historical contact with Swahili, which has significantly influenced its vocabulary. This influence is believed to be the result of interactions with traders from the Swahili-speaking regions of Kilwa and the Zanzibar Coast, who settled in Angoche in the 15th century. As a result, many words in Koti are derived from Swahili, and some linguists even suggest that Koti could be classified as a Makhuwa–Swahili mixed language.

Koti speakers are primarily found in the coastal villages on Koti Island, which are typically accessed by boat, and in several villages on the mainland near Angoche. These communities rely heavily on fishing as their main economic activity, with the catch being sold in the local markets. In addition to fishing, the people of these villages also keep chickens and goats for subsistence. The region’s coastline is characterized by mangrove forests, which play a crucial role in the local environment.

Despite the widespread influence of the regional language, Makhuwa, Koti remains a vital part of the cultural identity of the people of Angoche and Koti Island. Most Koti speakers are bilingual, with many also fluent in Makhuwa or its neighboring dialects, further contributing to the linguistic diversity of the region. The Koti language continues to play an important role in preserving the unique cultural heritage of this coastal community.