The Tswa–Ronga languages

The Tswa–Ronga languages, also known collectively as Tsonga, are a group of closely related Southern Bantu languages spoken primarily in southern Mozambique, northeastern South Africa, and southeastern Zimbabwe. These languages are part of the larger Bantu family, which falls under the Niger-Congo language classification. The Tswa–Ronga languages share many similarities, but they are distinct enough to be considered separate languages with different dialects and variations.

The Tswa–Ronga language group is divided into three main languages: Tswa, Ronga, and Tsonga. Tswa (also known as Xitswa) includes dialects such as Hlengwe, Khambana, and Tshwa. These dialects are largely intelligible with each other and with Ronga and Tsonga, though they are considered separate within the group. Ronga (Xironga) includes dialects like Konde, Putru, and Kalanga, and is also partially intelligible with Tsonga and Tswa. Tsonga (Xitsonga) is the most widely spoken of the three and includes dialects such as Changana (Xichangana), Luleke, and Gwamba. Changana is often considered the most prestigious of the Tsonga dialects and is frequently used as a standard for the language.

The Tswa–Ronga languages are mainly spoken by the Tsonga people, who live in a region rich in cultural diversity. While the term “Tsonga” is often used to refer to all three languages, it is also used specifically for the Tsonga dialects, particularly Changana, which is considered the most formal. These languages have been spoken for centuries, and despite their close relationship, they retain unique characteristics that reflect the cultural and historical diversity of the region.

In addition to the three main languages, there are several smaller, undocumented dialects within the Tswa–Ronga group. Many of these dialects are unwritten, contributing to the linguistic richness but also making it challenging to preserve these languages.