Communication Strategies in Alms Begging in Katsina Metropolis

This study examined the communication strategies and the role of cultural influences on alms-begging practices within the Katsina Metropolis, Nigeria. Utilizing Mey's Pragmatic Acts Theory as a theoretical framework, the research employed a qualitative approach to analyse verbal and non-verbal communication techniques used by beggars. Data was collected over a three-month period through field observations and recordings of 10 purposively selected beggars across various locations in Katsina Metropolis, with informed consent obtained from all participants prior to recording. The findings reveal that beggars employ various linguistically and culturally informed strategies, including religious invocations, appeals to maternal instincts, blessings, and references to basic needs. This research contributes to the understanding of the complex interplay between language, culture, and survival strategies in the context of alms begging, offering insights into the experiences of beggars in Katsina and the broader socio-linguistic dynamics of charitable practices in Northern Nigeria.