Welkom is a thriving city in South Africa’s Free State province that is well-known for its diverse culture, friendly people, and lengthy mining heritage. You might be asking what language is used in Welkom if you intend to travel there or move there.
The Main Language in Welkom
The primary language spoken in Welkom is Afrikaans. This is because Welkom is located in the Free State, a province where Afrikaans is widely used for communication, business, and daily life. Afrikaans is a derivative of Dutch and is one of South Africa’s 11 official languages.
Other Languages Spoken in Welkom
While Afrikaans is dominant, Welkom is a multilingual city. Other commonly spoken languages include:
- English – Widely spoken, especially in business, education, and tourism.
- Sesotho – A major language in the Free State, spoken by the Sotho people.
- Zulu and Xhosa – Spoken by some residents, especially those from other parts of South Africa.
Why Afrikaans is the Most Common Language in Welkom
Welkom was historically a mining hub, attracting Afrikaans-speaking communities from different parts of the country. Over time, Afrikaans became the dominant language in households, schools, and workplaces. However, as the city has grown more diverse, other languages, especially English and Sesotho, have also gained prominence.
Do You Need to Speak Afrikaans in Welkom?
While Afrikaans is the most commonly spoken language, you don’t necessarily need to be fluent in it to live or visit Welkom. English is widely understood, especially in urban areas, businesses, and government institutions. However, learning a few basic Afrikaans phrases can help you connect better with locals and enhance your experience.