Exploring Kigali Traders’ Attitudes towards English in Commercial Interactions

This study investigated traders’ attitudes towards the use of English in commercial transactions in the City of Kigali using a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected from 120 traders through questionnaires and interviews. The findings revealed that traders generally had mixed attitudes towards English in business contexts. On the one hand, traders expressed negative emotional attitudes, including discomfort, low confidence, and limited enjoyment when using English during transactions. These feelings were mainly linked to limited English proficiency and low levels of formal education, which made communication difficult in daily business activities. On the other hand, traders showed strong positive instrumental attitudes towards English. They recognized English as an important tool for business success, noting that it helps attract customers, improves professional image, facilitates access to technology, and supports communication with international clients and cross-border trade. The study also found that attitudes were influenced by education level, English proficiency, and perceived economic benefits. Despite recognizing its importance, limited proficiency created communication barriers. To cope with it, traders used strategies such as hiring interpreters or shop assistants who are fluent in English. The study recommends that the Private Sector Federation (PSF) provide practical English training for traders, and that public and private institutions ensure key documents are available in Kinyarwanda to improve confidence and competitiveness.