Bemba, a widely spoken language in Zambia, is becoming increasingly accessible thanks to a variety of online resources. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your skills, this guide includes free and paid resources to help you on your journey.
Free Bemba Learning Resources
1. Peace Corps Bemba Language Lessons
This free manual, designed for Peace Corps volunteers, offers structured lessons focusing on everyday communication needs. It includes survival phrases, grammar notes, and vocabulary.
2. Bemba Online Project (Emory University)
A comprehensive resource providing grammar lessons, sociolinguistic insights, digital texts, and audio materials to support Bemba learners.
3. Storybooks Zambia (Bemba Edition)
This platform provides children’s stories in Bemba, designed to promote literacy and language learning through engaging narratives.
4. GitHub – EngBembaDictionary
An open-source English-Bemba dictionary that’s perfect for vocabulary building and quick translations.
5. University of Wisconsin-Madison Digital Learning Lab
Access digitized audio materials for Bemba introductory courses developed in the 1970s.
6. National African Language Resource Center (NALRC)
NALRC at Indiana University provides materials focused on teaching and learning African languages, including Bemba.
Since its addition of Bemba to its list of available language translations in 2024, the quality of these translations has continued to improve as more Bemba speakers give it feedback for each translation. It’s still not perfect, but will translate a lot of the common words and simple sentences.
7. Google Translate
Paid Bemba Learning Resources
1. uTalk
A structured platform offering lessons through practical, real-life scenarios with games and quizzes.
2. Alliance Française de Lusaka
Alliance Française provides Bemba courses tailored for all levels, both in-person and online. Contact them for pricing details.
- Phone/WhatsApp: +260 95 093 4640
- Email: director@alliancefr.co.zm
- Visit Alliance Française
3. Custom Online Tutoring (Italki and Preply)
Hire professional tutors for one-on-one Bemba lessons. Prices vary based on the tutor’s experience and session length.
- Visit Preply (become a tutor)
Books and PDFs
1. English-Bemba Dictionary by Dr. John Sendama
A comprehensive dictionary for expanding vocabulary and improving translations.
2. Bemba Pocket Dictionary by Rev. E. Hoch
A concise dictionary for quick English-Bemba translations, suitable for beginners.
3. An Introductory Handbook to the Language of the Bemba People
An early 20th-century handbook focusing on grammar and foundational vocabulary.
Apps and Digital Tools
1. Memrise
Memrise offers user-generated Bemba lessons with vocabulary and grammar exercises.
2. Quizlet
Find Bemba flashcards created by other learners to test your skills.
Community Forums and Social Media
1. Facebook Groups
Join groups like Learn Bemba Language to connect with native speakers and fellow learners.
2. Reddit
Participate in discussions on subreddits like r/languagelearning or r/Africa for tips and resources.
Podcasts and YouTube Channels
1. Podcasts
Search for Bemba audio lessons on Spotify or Apple Podcasts by typing “Learn Bemba.”
2. YouTube – KitweOnline
KitweOnline offers structured lessons and cultural insights, making learning Bemba engaging and fun.
Conclusion
With these resources, learning Bemba has never been easier. Start with the free materials to build your foundation, then explore paid options for a more tailored experience. Consistency is key, so immerse yourself in the language regularly to make steady progress.
If you’ve used any of these resources or have suggestions for others, share your experiences in the comments below!
KitweOnline is currently running FREE Zoom lessons. There are still open spaces for those who want to join us.
