Tanzanian Sign Language

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A language of Tanzania

ISO 639-3
tza
Alternate Names
Lugha Ya Alama, "Lugha Ya Bubu" (pej.)
Language Status

5 (Developing).

Classification
Deaf sign language
Language Use

In some deaf institutions, sign language is not taught; caretakers want deaf children to speak and lip-read to fit into society more easily. All domains. All ages.

Language Development
Dictionary.
Other Comments

Historically, schools for the deaf used different sign languages. More recently, Tanzanian sign language was standardized by the Tanzania Association for the Deaf (CHAVITA) which is attempting to use it in most schools for the deaf. Primary schools for deaf children since 1963. About 5% of deaf children attend school. Committee on national sign language. Little research.