Language as a tool of abuse against women: the case of the language of matatu touts and University students in Nairobi

Abstract

A notable percentage of men in the society use language to marginalize abuse and demean women. This study is an attempt to study the role of English Kiswahili and Sheng languages in promoting and sustaining the above and to consider some of the socio linguistics factors that motivate this speech behaviour. The main aim of the study was to collect and provide data that could assist in defining and evaluating this problem so that a lasting solution could be found. Socia linguistics was the theoretical orientation adapted in the study. Literature related to the topic of the research was critically revealed. The data used were derived from pieces taken natural ethnographic conversations among University students and matatu touts. Field notes were taken through participant observation, conversation analysis, eavesdropping, and informal interviews on graffiti taken from walls of matatus and the hall of residents of university students.