The Socio-Linguistic Implications of Personal Names in Mokpe

Abstract

Purpose: Most of our Cameroonian national languages are demographically and socio-culturally pressured by the English language. The national languages which were previously used in elementary education and religious activities currently do not have any place in any official domain and thus are limited to home and other few immediate domains. Due to this unequal coexistence of the languages, many national languages are considered endangered, calling for efforts from stakeholders to prevent the death of such a precious cultural heritage. In this line of understanding, the objective of this study was to investigate the semantic aspects, naming criteria, and typology of Mopke personal names.  It is a contribution to such initiatives like the Bakweri Language and Literacy committee which aims at documenting the Bakweri language in every possible area and means.

Methodology: To achieve our objective, data was collected through participant observation, in-depth interview and self-intuition to investigate personal names of the Bakweri also called the Mokpe people of the South West Region of Cameroon, considering naming as an important aspect of the society.

Findings: As regards the theoretical framework, we looked at Mopke names within the purview of linguistic anthropology considering names as not being arbitrary labels but socio-cultural tags that have socio-cultural functions and meanings. In order to analyse and discuss the patterns observed in the data, the Thematic Analysis technique used to present the typology of the names including family names, circumstantial names, theophorous names and flora and fauna names. The paper further examined the changing nature of Mokpe naming system and practice as dictated by cultural contact mainly with Christian/ western culture.

Recommendations: The study wraps up with a recommendation for further investigation on issues surrounding naming practices and strategic measures to prevent this important African cultural resource.