SL

Republic of Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone is a country in Africa that is home to 8,141,000 people. It is also home to 19 living indigenous languages. Some of these—Mende, Themne, and West-Central Limba—are official languages in parts of the country. In addition, 5 living non-indigenous languages are established within the country. One of these, English, is the official language of the country. In formal education, 4 indigenous languages are used as languages of instruction.

  • Geography

    Clickable world globe showing country outlines
  • Demographics

    8,141,000

    people

    19

    living languages

    43%
    literate
  • Language Vitality Count

    1. 5
    2. 10
    3. 4
    4. 0

Sierra Leone has adopted the following international conventions which speak to indigenous language rights.