Thanks to the fact that An ka taa is a patron-backed endeavor (aw ni ce, patrons!), I was able to apply for some free hosting in late 2020 for an idea that I've longed mulled over: a Manding language forum—a place where speakers and learners of Manding can connect and build knowledge about the language.
Why a forum?
It allows speakers and learners of Manding to build knowledge about the language. When people want to know how to say or translate this or that, they turn to search engines like Google. For languages like French, German, etc., there are robust vocabulary and grammar forums that supplement all of the available dictionaries are online. This is helpful because language is filled with nuances and terms that escape lexicographers, and because language is always changing. African languages like Manding should have similar resources!
It allows speakers and learners of Manding to connect. One of the best things about learning a language is that it allows you to connect with other people. One of the hardest things when learning a language – when you aren't immersed in it in daily life – is finding opportunities to practice and stay motivated. With An ka taa, lots of patrons, students, and supporters share similar backgrounds or interests, but they don't have find ways to practice and stay in touch with the language regularly. A forum helps with that!
What can I do in the forum?
I've set up a bunch of different categories, but the most important things that you can do are:
Post questions and responses about the use and translation of Manding-English-French words, expressions and idioms.
Suggest additions to the An ka taa Bambara/Jula-English-French dictionary!
How can I help?
Join the forum, post on it, and spread the word to any Manding speaker or learner that loves words!
Love the idea, but don’t want to join the Forum? Become a patron! :-)