Soplang is an open-source programming language designed specifically for the Somali community, using Somali keywords to make coding accessible in the user's mother tongue. It offers dual typing, object-oriented programming support, and modern tooling including a CLI, REPL, and VS Code extension. The language is available for Windows and Linux, with installation options including installers, package managers, and Docker.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Somali speakers face significant barriers to learning and using programming languages that are predominantly English-based, creating a language gap that hinders technical education and software development within the community. This limits participation in the global tech economy and slows local innovation.
Solution
Soplang provides the first open-source programming language built entirely with Somali syntax, enabling developers, students, and educators to write code using their native language. The language supports both dynamic typing for rapid scripting and static typing for building robust applications, while offering full object-oriented programming capabilities. It includes a comprehensive toolchain with an integrated command-line interface, a read-eval-print loop for interactive development, and a Visual Studio Code extension for a modern development experience. Soplang is designed to lower the entry barrier for Somali speakers, allowing them to grasp complex programming concepts more intuitively and build software without the added challenge of translating their thoughts into English.
Target Audience
Primary users are Somali-speaking students, educators, and software developers who want to learn or build applications using their native language, as well as educational institutions and tech communities in Somalia and the Somali diaspora.
Features
- Dual typing system supporting both dynamic and static typing for flexibility across different project types
- Full object-oriented programming support with classes, inheritance, and encapsulation
- Integrated CLI, REPL, and VS Code extension for a complete development environment
- Available for Windows (installer, winget) and Linux (tarball, .deb/.rpm packages)
- Docker container image for cross-platform development and deployment
- Open-source codebase hosted on GitHub with community contribution guidelines