Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part C (2025)

This study examines the revitalization of Chichewa, a minority border language spoken in Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi, with a primary focus on Zimbabwe. The research explores the historical and contemporary factors influencing Chichewa’s status, emphasizing the impact of migration, language policy and socio-economic dynamics. Using a decolonial framework, the study assesses the role of grassroots activism, digital technology and regional collaboration in advancing language rights and revitalization efforts. While the 2013 Constitution marked a pivotal moment in recognizing Chichewa as an official language, its practical implementation remains limited. Through qualitative methods including interviews, policy analysis and case studies, this research identifies key obstacles to Chichewa’s revitalization, such as policy inertia, institutional neglect and linguistic hierarchies. The study argues that meaningful language revitalization requires robust policy enforcement, community participation and sustained resource allocation to ensure linguistic inclusion and equity. By critically engaging with issues of language rights, identity and governance, this research contributes to broader discussions on linguistic justice and decolonization in Southern Africa.