INTERGENERATIONAL TRANSMISSION OF THE KIPSIGIS LANGUAGE IN KURESOI SOUTH SUB-COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Intergenerational transmission is the most fundamental factor in the survival and preservation of minority and indigenous languages. However, in multilingual African contexts, positive attitudes towards heritage languages do not necessarily result in continuity of use or effective transmission. This study examines the relationship between language attitudes, language use, and intergenerational transmission intentions among young Kipsigis speakers in Kuresoi South Sub-County, Nakuru County, Kenya. It was anchored in the Ethnolinguistic Vitality Theory and adopted a mixed-methods research design. The target population comprised native Kipsigis speakers aged 18–34 years residing in Kuresoi South Sub-County. A sample of 140 respondents was selected through stratified sampling based on gender and level of education to ensure representativeness. Data were collected using questionnaires and Focus Group Discussions. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and cross-tabulations, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings show that although most respondents demonstrate high emotional attachment and cultural pride in Kipsigis, clear disparities exist in actual language use. While 62% expressed willingness to transmit the language to their children or younger siblings, 28% were unsure and 10% were unwilling. A very strong positive relationship was found between frequency of language use and intention to transmit the language. Over 80% of respondents who use Kipsigis daily reported a strong desire to pass it to the next generation, whereas infrequent users were more likely to be unsure or unwilling. Qualitative evidence shows schooling practices, peer pressure, and digital spaces limit use, requiring home-based and digital transmission. This study concludes that positive attitudes cannot maintain intergenerational transmission unless consistent daily use is maintained.