Southern Sotho in Zimbabwe

Sotho is a multi-dialect Zimbabwean language spoken in other five southern African countries namely; Lesotho, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia and Namibia. In Zimbabwe, it is spoken in Matabeleland South and Masvingo provinces, respectively. Sotho speakers are found in Gwanda, Beitbridge, Matobo, Mangwe and Gutu districts. In Gwanda South district, it is spoken under Biroa chiefs like Mare, Marupi, Kgoathalala and the momentarily defunct Magaya. In this district, the language is spoken in areas that include Bengo, Selonga, Ngoma, Buvuma, Nhwali, Mkhalipe, Halisupi, Kafusi, Tshongwe, Gungwe, Mawaza and several areas that surround them. Under Beitbridge district, Sotho people are found in areas such as Shashe, Machuchuta, Masera and Siyoka. There are areas that are more inclined to Tswana and South Africa dialect and call it Biroa. The language is also spoken in Gutu area, Masvingo province. The Biroa are the Nare (Nyathi). Sotho people entered Zimbabwe with missionaries from South Africa. Statistical record show that there are 39, 155 (0.3%) mother-tongue speakers of the Sotho language in Zimbabwe.