Top Resources for Learning Yoruba Online
By: Chimdindu Ken-Anaukwu
Learning Yoruba, a language rich in cultural heritage and linguistic depth, has never been more accessible. Whether you’re exploring Yoruba to connect with your roots, enhance your travels, or for sheer linguistic curiosity, these top resources will guide you on your journey.
1. NKENNE
NKENNE is the ultimate platform for mastering Yoruba and other African languages. Unlike gamified approaches, NKENNE emphasizes personal interaction, offering access to tutors (premium version) and a vibrant learner community (free version). Whether you’re looking for structured lessons, cultural insights, or a supportive environment to practice, NKENNE blends language learning with authentic African experiences.
Why it’s great: Culturally immersive, interactive, and community-driven.
Website: NKENNE
2. Memrise
Memrise offers Yoruba lessons focusing on vocabulary, pronunciation, and listening skills. With videos of native speakers using Yoruba in real-life contexts, this app ensures you gain practical knowledge. Its AI-driven recommendations and speaking practice tools help you build confidence in Yoruba conversations.
Why it’s great: Interactive and visually engaging.
Website: Memrise
3. Live Lingua
Live Lingua offers free Yoruba courses that include ebooks and audio files, making it a great option for self-paced learners. The platform’s materials are straightforward, allowing beginners to develop a foundational understanding of the language.
Why it’s great: Free resources with ebooks and audio support.
Website: Live Lingua
4. Drops
If you prefer quick, engaging lessons, Drops uses immersive visuals to teach Yoruba vocabulary in just five minutes a day. The app’s playful approach to learning helps you retain new words while keeping it fun.
Why it’s great: Bite-sized, visually stunning lessons.
Website: Drops
5. Yoruba Name Project
Names are an essential part of Yoruba culture, often carrying deep meanings and historical significance. The Yoruba Name Project is a crowdsourced dictionary of Yoruba names, helping learners understand cultural nuances while expanding their vocabulary.
Why it’s great: Offers a cultural and linguistic connection.
Website: Yoruba Name Project
6. Yorùbá Yé Mi Textbook
Created by the University of Texas at Austin, "Yorùbá Yé Mi" provides a structured, comprehensive approach to learning Yoruba. This textbook is perfect for both beginners and intermediate learners, focusing on grammar, tones, and communication skills.
Why it’s great: Detailed and academic.
Website: Yorùbá Yé Mi
7. YorubaLessons.com
If you’re looking for personalized instruction, YorubaLessons.com offers professional tutoring. Their courses are designed to take learners from beginner to fluency through structured and engaging lessons.
Why it’s great: One-on-one professional tutoring.
Website: YorubaLessons.com
8. MyLanguages.org
This website offers beginner-friendly lessons on Yoruba pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. It’s a straightforward resource to get started and gain confidence in the basics.
Why it’s great: Clear and easy to follow.
Website: MyLanguages
Final Thoughts
Learning Yoruba is not just about the language—it’s about connecting with the culture, history, and people of Yoruba-speaking regions. With resources like NKENNE and others on this list, you’ll find tools tailored to your needs and learning style.
P.S. Remember, as the Yoruba proverb says, "Àkókò tó máa dà'gbà ń bẹ láti ọmọdé." ("The time for growth starts from childhood.") In other words, start small, stay consistent, and you’ll achieve mastery.
Ready to begin? Your Yoruba journey awaits!