Intercultural dynamics and sociolinguistic identity The case of the Luhya community in Western Kenya

Abstract

An intercultural speaker navigates (and mediates) between different cultural and linguistic contexts, promoting understanding across boundaries. Language is integral to identity, with a strong relationship between language and identity well-documented. It is in the light of Nelson Mandela's words "If you talk to a man in his mother tongue, that goes to his heart" that this paper studies the Luhya community of Western Kenya, emphasizing their role as intercultural speakers. The Luhya, a diverse ethnolinguistic group, navigate complex sociolinguistic landscapes shaped by identity, language attitudes, language change, and ideology. Through qualitative analysis, this research examines how the Luhya's multilingual practices and intercultural interactions influence their sociolinguistic identity. The study highlights the community's strategies in maintaining linguistic heritage while engaging with broader socio-political dynamics. Findings reveal that the Luhya's language attitudes and ideologies are pivotal in shaping their identity and facilitate intercultural competence. Intercultural competence is key in today's globalized world as it enables individuals to communicate effectively and empathetically across cultural boundaries, enabling mutual respect and understanding. This research provides insights into the interplay between language, culture, and identity in East Africa, by emphasizing the importance of intercultural competence in navigating and bridging diverse cultural landscapes.