Sheng (language)
Sheng is a slang variation of Swahili, originating in Nairobi, Kenya, and influenced by the many languages spoken there. It is still most popular on the streets of that capital, but has spread across social classes to the halls of the Kenyan parliament, and geographically to neighbouring Tanzania and Uganda.
Originating in the sixties, Sheng was developed at first by the urban youth. Kenyans have adopted more and more of it during the last two decades; it is a combination of Kiswahili, English, and regional dialects of the various ethnic groups in Kenya.
Some officials worry that Sheng's use is so widespread that the official national languages will be interfered with in the process. The language is now heard among matatu drivers across the region, and in the popular media. It also evolves rapidly, as words are moved into and out of slang use.
