Insights into language management in the health sector: Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa

Abstract

This article explores language management issues in South Africa’s multilingual context during the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding the critical role of language as both an enabler of and impediment to access to health care is important for health care systems and governments that are characterised by linguistically and culturally diverse populations as in South Africa. A significant concern during the pandemic was the inadequate use of indigenous African languages for disseminating crucial health care information. During this period, English was predominantly used for health care communication. For example, the president’s addresses to the nation and the Corona Virus Command Council announcements were done in English, thus disadvantaging most African language speakers who may not be fully proficient in English. This happened even though African languages are spoken by over 80% of the South African population. The article draws from the language management approach to argue that the sociolinguistic and cultural dynamics that affect language use in the health sector should be addressed through effective macro- and micro-level language management to achieve language management goals. In conclusion, although the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic was unprecedented, it presented an essential opportunity for transformative and adaptive changes, offering valuable insights into language management in the health sector.