This study examined the challenges encountered in the teaching and learning of Dedication. This research work is dedicated to my beloved family, whose unconditional love, prayers, and encouragement have been the driving force behind my academic journey. To my parents, for instilling in me the values of hard work, discipline, and perseverance, I am forever grateful. I also dedicate this study to all learners of Kiswahili who continue to strive for excellence despite the challenges they face, and to teachers who tirelessly work to impart knowledge and shape future generations. skills in Kiswahili among learners in public secondary schools in Nyaribari Masaba Sub- County, Kisii County. The study was guided by three objectives: to explore how students’ attitudes influence the teaching and learning of phonological skills, to interrogate the availability of teaching resources, and to examine the influence of language interference on the learning of Kiswahili phonology.
The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The target population comprised Form Two and Form Three students and Kiswahili teachers from three selected secondary schools. A sample of 80 students was selected through stratified random sampling; teachers were purposively selected. Questionnaires were used to collect data, which was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as percentages, frequencies, tables, and pie charts. The findings revealed that while some students enjoyed learning phonological skills, negative attitudes hindered performance. Resource inadequacy, particularly limited textbooks and audio/visual materials, negatively affected the teaching and learning process. Furthermore, language interference from both mother tongue and English posed significant challenges in mastering Kiswahili phonology. The study recommends that schools should provide adequate learning resources, teachers should adopt motivational strategies to enhance positive student attitudes, and students should be exposed to more Kiswahili conversations and practice to minimize language interference.