what is the predominant language in south africa?
South African English
contradiction
 English is the main language used in the education and judiciary systems . The Bantu languages Shona and Sindebele are the principal indigenous languages of Zimbabwe . Shona is spoken by 70 % of the population , Sindebele by 20 % . Other minority Bantu languages include Venda , Tsonga , Shangaan , Kalanga , Sotho , Ndau and Nambya . Less than 2 @.@ 5 % , mainly the white and " coloured " ( mixed race ) minorities , consider English their native language . Shona has a rich oral tradition , which was incorporated into the first Shona novel , Feso by Solomon Mutswairo , published in 1956 . English is spoken primarily in the cities , but less so in rural areas . Radio and television news now broadcast in Shona , Sindebele and English . 

contradiction
 Black and White in South Africa 

neutral
 From the time that European settlers first arrived in South Africa in 1652 , the country was divided on racial lines , in common with similar settlements . In contrast to other European colonies , racial distinction and segregation intensified during the early 20th century , and the various ethnic groups became more sharply defined and divided . Following its general election victory in 1948 , the National Party , led by Daniel Malan , formalised this racism under a government policy called apartheid . Under apartheid , different races were kept apart in all aspects of life . This system was thoroughly enforced during the 1950s ; any resistance from non @-@ white races was put down and laws , supposedly to prevent the rise of communism , were passed to prevent political agitation . 

neutral
 South Africa 1899 – 1902 ( inherited ) ; 

neutral
 South Africa 1899 – 1902 ( inherited ) ; 
