Code-switching as a communicative strategy and its impact on identity: a case of Runyankore-English bilinguals

The present study focuses on code-switching, the alternation of two or more languages in a conversation. It investigates how a network of elite, educated bilinguals in Ankole region alternate between Runyankore and English in everyday casual conversations, and how this language practice relates to their social identities. This phenomenon is ideal for looking into the meaning and social significance of code-switching, and how this linguistic style contributes to identity creation. This study was based on ethnographic interviews and observations, audio recordings of casual conversations, and a thorough account of speakers’ socio-cultural realities. The aim of this study was to analyze the narratives in which code-switching is present in order to understand when and how it occurs, what function it has in conversation, and finally, whether or not the code-switching is related in any way to the construction of identities in relation to language among participants. It was found that code-switching constitutes an integral part of the linguistic repertoire of a network of elite Runyankore - English bilinguals and that they employ code-switching habitually in informal group encounters. Speakers did not engage in code-switching as a deliberate choice. However, the code-switching practice of this network was found to have important implications for the affirmation, and shaping of personal and social identities. Code-switching, in this context, cannot be said to automatically index a hybrid, bicultural identity. Participants denied any relationship between their use of English and claiming an “English” identity. Based on the data, the researcher felt that code-switching should be seen in a more positive light, despite the possible language extinction that will entail from code-switching extensively. Code-switching could be embraced as a communicative strategy.