Lexicographical practice and lexicological research: the case of Shangani in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The article outlines the contribution of ALRI towards the development of the minor-ity languages in Zimbabwe, with special reference to Shangani. After a description of the status of Shangani, a brief summary of the Zimbabwean language use policy is given. The challenges for the development of lexicographical practice and lexicological research are discussed with regard to a minority language that has been marginalized for a long time. After the consideration of the kind of dictionary planned for Shangani in accordance with the user profile, the role of a dictionary in codifying and harmonizing a language is stressed. Except for contributing to the orthographic development of a language, lexicography also forms the basis for the furtherance of literacy in a community.

Keywords: alri, minority languages, marginalized languages, lexico-graphical practice, lexicological research, dictionary, target users, shangani