LLLanguages · Local Languages

Learn Local Languages
in Diani.

Classes in Kenya's coastal and local languages at IJLAPS, Diani. Connect with communities in the language they call home.

WhatsApp Us to Enquire All 19 languages

Local Languages class, student and teacher, 600×500

Why learn Local Languages

Kenya is home to over 60 languages spoken across its communities. On the coast, local languages including Giriama, Digo, Duruma, and others are part of the daily fabric of community life. Learning a local language is one of the most direct ways to connect with people, show respect, and build genuine relationships in a community.

Local languages are valuable for:

NGO and development workers serving coastal communities
Healthcare workers and social workers operating in local areas
Researchers and academics working in the region
Residents and long-term visitors wanting deeper community connection
Professionals working directly with local populations

Detail photo, book/notes, 480×400

What you will learn

Course content depends on the language. IJLAPS will tailor the programme to your goals, whether everyday conversational skills, vocabulary for a professional setting, or a more structured learning pathway. WhatsApp us to discuss which local language you are interested in and what you want to achieve.

CEFR Levels

Levels available.

All language courses at IJLAPS follow the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). We offer all six levels, from total beginner to full mastery.

A1BeginnerBasic UserBasic User

Understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases. Introduce yourself, ask and answer simple questions about personal details, and interact in a simple way provided the other person speaks slowly and clearly.

A2ElementaryBasic UserBasic User

Understand sentences and frequently used phrases on everyday topics like shopping, family, work and the local area. Communicate in simple, routine tasks and describe your background and immediate environment in plain terms.

B1IntermediateIndependent UserIndependent User

Handle most situations likely to arise while travelling in an area where the language is spoken. Produce simple, connected text on familiar topics, describe experiences and events, and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.

B2Upper IntermediateIndependent UserIndependent User

Interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular conversation with native speakers possible. Understand the main ideas of complex texts and write clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects.

C1AdvancedProficient UserProficient User

Express ideas fluently and spontaneously without obvious effort searching for words. Use the language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes, and produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects.

C2MasteryProficient UserProficient User

Understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. Summarise information from different sources into a coherent presentation, and express yourself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, even in the most demanding situations.

WhatsApp us to confirm which levels are currently running for Local Languages.

Who it’s for

Who this course is for.

Profile 01NGO and development workers on the Kenyan coast

Profile 02Healthcare and social workers in local communities

Profile 03Researchers and academics studying coastal Kenyan communities

Profile 04Expats and long-term residents wanting genuine local connection

Enrol

Start learning Local Languages.

Certificate of completion issued by IJLAPS on finishing the course. WhatsApp us to confirm class availability, start dates, and fees.