Soplang (short for Somali Programming Language) is a culturally-rooted programming language designed specifically for Somali speakers. It allows developers to write code using native Somali syntax and expressions.

Soplang is designed for everyone, but especially Somali speakers who want to learn programming using their native language. It's particularly useful for students, teachers, and new developers in Somalia and the Somali diaspora.

Is Soplang free to use?

Yes, Soplang is completely free and open-source under the MIT License. You can download, use, and contribute to its development without any cost.

What platforms does Soplang work on?

Soplang works on Windows, macOS, and Linux/UNIX operating systems. It has a Python-based interpreter that runs on all major platforms.

How can I contribute to Soplang?

You can contribute to Soplang by helping with code development, documentation, translations, or community building. Visit our Contribute page for more information on getting involved.

Soplang 2.0 Is Almost Here — A Somali-first Programming Language Nears Major Release

The programming language landscape is about to welcome a fresh and culturally grounded addition: Soplang, a Somali-first programming language, is preparing to launch its long-awaited 2.0 release. Designed with native Somali syntax, dual typing, and full developer tooling, Soplang 2.0 is shaping up to be more than just a language — it's an ecosystem.

Initially released as a minimalist interpreted language, Soplang has evolved into a feature-rich environment intended to make software development more accessible to Somali-speaking developers.

What's Soplang?

Soplang is a general-purpose programming language built around Somali linguistic conventions. Its core syntax reflects Somali words — like door for variable declarations, haddii for conditionals, and howl for functions — making it more intuitive for native speakers.

Beyond the syntax, Soplang includes many of the features developers expect from a modern language: object-oriented programming, static typing, module support, and error handling.

Soplang 2.0: What's New?

The upcoming 2.0 release is a full revamp that significantly expands language capabilities and introduces powerful development tools.

Language Improvements

Dual Typing System: Support for both static and dynamic typing
Class System: OOP via fasalka, inheritance with ka_dhaxal
Structured Control Flow: Including haddii, celi, iska_joog, and loop constructs
Error Handling: With isku_day/qabo (try/catch) semantics

Soplang's syntax is backed by a formal EBNF grammar, implemented fully in the interpreter.

Expanded Standard Library

Soplang 2.0 ships with a more complete standard library:

Math Module: Functions for matrix operations, vectors, and basic statistics
File I/O: Somali-named file handlers like faylka_fur, faylka_qor, and faylka_xir
Networking: Basic HTTP functionality using shabakad_codso and shabakad_jawaab
Date/Time: Native date manipulation in Somali syntax

The goal is to keep everything practical while preserving linguistic clarity and accessibility.

Tooling & Developer Experience

Tooling has been a major focus for Soplang 2.0, and it shows:

VS Code Extension: Includes syntax highlighting, inline docs, and code suggestions
REPL: Command-line interface with history and syntax coloring
Browser Runtime (sopScript): For embedding Soplang in web applications and learning platforms
CLI Tool (sop): Manage packages, run programs, and handle project scaffolding

This is a level of polish rarely seen in small-language ecosystems — a promising sign of future growth.

Website & Docs

The official website is now live at soplang.org. You'll find full documentation, language reference, community links, and project updates — all aligned with the language's mission to be educational, accessible, and community-driven.

What's Next?

The current focus is on finalizing the Python-based interpreter and testing the tooling across platforms. A Rust-based compiler is on the roadmap for future versions, bringing faster performance and system-level capabilities.

According to the team, the 2.0 beta release is expected within the next 4–6 weeks.

Why It Matters

Soplang is part of a growing trend toward culturally contextual programming languages. For Somali-speaking learners and developers, this offers an easier entry point into coding — no translation required. For educators, it's a new tool to make computer science more accessible.

And for the wider tech community, it's a reminder: programming doesn't need to be English-only.

Learn More

GitHub: github.com/soplang/soplang
Website: soplang.org

Have thoughts on culturally localized programming? Seen similar efforts in your own region? Drop a comment below and let's talk.