ABSTRACT
In the Somali language before 1943 no words or phrases were in general circulation which would describe, for instance, socialism, capitalism, diplomatic relations, independence, secession, coup d'etat, president, economic development, progress, or trade union. Within the last twenty-five years considerable changes have taken place in the lexical resources of the Somali language. A large number of words and phrases have come into existence, and many old words have changed their meaning. The changes which have taken place are, in the vast majority of cases, concerned with the adaptation of the language to the needs of modern life: politics, administration, technology, and science. The Italian occupation lasted only till March 1941, when both the Somaliland Protectorate and the Italian colony of Somalia found themselves under British military administration. After some initial experimentation regular broadcasts in Somali were introduced in 1943 from Hargeisa, and were accepted by the public as a welcome innovation.
