Language is a powerful tool that has the ability to connect people, preserve cultures, and convey knowledge. However, some languages are on the verge of extinction, and sadly, N|uu is one of them.
A click language from Southern Africa
N|uu, pronounced with a clicking sound between the ‘N’ and the ‘uu’, is considered the most endangered language in the world, with only one fluent speaker remaining, Ouma Katrina Esau.
N|uu is a click language that originated from the San people, who are indigenous hunter-gatherers from southern Africa.
It has a rich history that spans over 20,000 years. However, due to various factors, including colonization and suppression, the language is now teetering on the brink of extinction.
The British Empire’s arrival in Africa during the 19th century marked a turning point in the fate of N|uu.
The language was driven underground as its speakers faced persecution and even death. The oppressive policies enforced by the colonizers forced many people to abandon their native tongue and adopt other languages.
As a result, N|uu was silenced, and its existence was endangered.
The revival of the world’s most endangered language
Fortunately, in the 1990s, a glimmer of hope emerged. Dr. Nigel Crawhall, a sociolinguist, and the United Nations embarked on a mission to uncover and revive the language.
Several elderly individuals, who had kept their knowledge of N|uu a secret for decades, came forward. They were determined to reclaim their identity and prove their San heritage through their proficiency in the language.
Only one person left alive can speak N|uu
Out of the 25 individuals who initially claimed fluency in N|uu, Ouma Katrina Esau is the last remaining fluent speaker.
She has become a vital link to preserving this endangered language. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Esau has collaborated with Dr. Kerry Jones, a linguist and director of African Tongue, to revitalize N|uu.
Efforts to revive N|uu have included the creation of a written dictionary and the development of digital resources. Esau has also taken it upon herself to pass on her knowledge to younger generations, including her granddaughter Claudia.
They strive to ensure that N|uu survives and thrives, even if it means that Claudia’s proficiency is not yet at a fluent level.
The journey to save N|uu is not without challenges. The language’s endangerment is deeply intertwined with the history of oppression and cultural erasure.
However, the resilience and determination shown by Esau, Claudia, and the dedicated linguists working alongside them offer a glimmer of hope.
Online users voiced on the matter.
On social media, many online users voiced for preserving the world’s most endangered language.
From sharing articles and stories to calling for action, the collective voice emphasizes the importance of safeguarding linguistic diversity and cultural heritage for future generations.
Her daughter/granddaughter is helping her write a type of dictionary, one user said.
The comment section proves that many people across the world lack basic understanding, emotional intelligence and are highly insensitive. Pathetic lots! The second user said.
My heart breaks for her… I hope that it can be recorded in its entirety and taught to future generations, the third user commented.
It’s not endangered, it’s dead. & if she’s as old as she looks she isn’t gonna teach anyone to be fluent anytime soon. Let’s just hope she has a diary, another wrote.
She and her granddaughter are recording words and teaching local children the language. It’s truly a cool story, someone said.