Title: A Survey of the Situation of Court Interpreting in Zimbabwe
Authors: Shoko Immaculate
Gandu Sebastien (PhD)
Volume: 7
Issue: 12
Pages: 373-378
Publication Date: 2023/12/28
Abstract:
This study has as objectives to explore, describe and explain the profile as well as the roles played by court interpreters in Zimbabwe. It equally identifies the challenges faced and proposes possible solutions. To investigate the situation of court interpreting in Zimbabwe, the following four research questions were articulated: 1) What is the profile of court interpreters in Zimbabwe? 2) What is the role played by court interpreters in Zimbabwe? 3) What are the main challenges faced by court interpreters in Zimbabwe? 4) What are the possible solutions to the challenges faced by court interpreters in Zimbabwe? To answer these questions, a mixed methods approach was used. A questionnaire was administered to court interpreters, interviews were conducted with the presiding court magistrates in Harare and observations were carried out at the Harare Magistrate Court. Quantitative data was analyzed through the SPSS method while a thematic method was used to analyze qualitative data. The training theory, the communication theory and the interpreter role (self)perception model and an assessment tool supported this research. Findings reveal that: 1) Court interpreters in Zimbabwe can be considered as professionals. 2) Their role is that of a language conduit, to bridge the communication gap and ensure effective communication between the parties and nothing more. 3) Technical terms, the defendants' attitude, languages difficulties, long court procedures and low salaries are among some of the challenges faced by court interpreters in Zimbabwe. 4) Language enhancement courses, better working conditions and salaries, knowing the court procedures beforehand, more training in court interpreting and basic interpreter training could help alleviate the challenges they face.