Paper long abstract:

Interest on the economics of language and language planning has been increasing. Much of it focuses on how global languages like English facilitate speakers’ entry into job markets. In communities whose languages are still breaking into public domains of usage following years of marginalisation, proficiency in such languages has proven to be an important part of individual speakers’ human capital portfolio. This study discusses the economic consequences of language planning and language revitalisation efforts in Zimbabwe. We focus on the perspectives of selected Tonga language teachers to understand how language planning efforts in Zimbabwe impact their material conditions as speakers of the previously marginalised Tonga language. Data is collected through semi-structured interviews conducted with selected Tonga teachers drawn from schools in Binga district and a review of official language policy documents. We argue that the official recognition of Tonga has increased opportunities in the language teaching labour market and improved livelihoods and wellbeing of those involved in Tonga language teaching. We therefore advocate for a more comprehensive language policy to consolidate the gains made in language revitalisation.