African Language Subtitling Services
Professional timed text for video content in African languages. From feature films and documentaries to corporate training and online media, we deliver accurate, readable subtitles that connect your video with wider audiences.
Get a Subtitling QuoteWhat Is Subtitling?
Subtitling is the process of adding timed text to video so viewers can read dialogue and narration on screen. Unlike simple transcription, subtitles must be precisely synchronized with the audio, segmented into readable line lengths, and timed to match the pace at which viewers naturally read. The result is a seamless viewing experience where the text complements the visuals rather than competing with them.
There is an important distinction between subtitling and captioning. Subtitles translate or reproduce dialogue for viewers who can hear the audio but need the text in another language (or the same language for clarity). Closed captions, on the other hand, include all audible information: dialogue, sound effects, music cues, and speaker identification, designed primarily for deaf or hard-of-hearing audiences. We handle both.
Cross-Language Subtitles
Translate spoken dialogue from one language into subtitle text in another. Ideal for reaching new audiences: African-language films subtitled in English, or English content subtitled in Swahili, Yoruba, Hausa, and more.
Same-Language Captions
Reproduce spoken content as on-screen text in the same language. Essential for accessibility compliance, social media (where most viewers watch on mute), and noisy environments.
Burned-In Subtitles
Subtitles rendered directly into the video file so they cannot be turned off. Used for social media clips, festival screenings, and any distribution channel where separate subtitle files are not supported.
How It Works
Four steps from raw video to finished subtitles
1. Upload Video
Share your video file or a cloud link. We accept all common formats and any file size via Google Drive, Dropbox, or WeTransfer.
2. Transcribe Audio
A native speaker listens to the audio and creates a full transcript, capturing every line of dialogue with cultural context intact.
3. Create Timed Subtitles
The transcript is segmented, timed to the video, and formatted for readability: line breaks, reading speed, and character limits all checked.
4. Review and Deliver
A second reviewer checks timing, spelling, and sync. You receive the subtitle file in your chosen format, with a free revision if needed.
Subtitle Format Guide
We deliver in the format your platform or workflow requires
SRT is the universal standard: simple, widely supported, and accepted by YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, and most media players. VTT (WebVTT) is the native format for HTML5 web video and supports positioning and styling. TTML is required by many broadcast networks and streaming services (Netflix, Amazon) for its rich formatting capabilities. ASS/SSA allows advanced styling (fonts, colors, positioning) and is common in creative and entertainment projects. SBV is a legacy YouTube format still used in some workflows. Not sure which format you need? Tell us where the video will be published, and we will recommend the right one.
What Affects Subtitling Pricing
Every project is quoted individually based on these factors
Video Duration
The primary pricing factor. Longer videos require more transcription, timing, and review work. We quote per minute of finished video.
Number of Languages
Need subtitles in multiple languages? Each additional language requires a separate translation pass. Volume discounts apply for multi-language projects.
Dialogue Density
Videos with fast-paced, overlapping, or technical dialogue take more time to subtitle accurately than content with slower, simpler narration.
Format Requirements
Standard SRT delivery is included. Burned-in subtitles, styled ASS/SSA files, or broadcast-ready TTML may involve additional formatting work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Clients Trust Us
Concrete guarantees, not just badges
Native Speakers Only
Every subtitle is translated and reviewed by a native speaker of the target language, ensuring natural phrasing and cultural accuracy.
Revision Included
Not satisfied with the timing or wording? Every project includes at least one round of free revisions at no extra cost.
NDA and Confidentiality
We sign NDAs on request. Your video content is handled securely and never shared with third parties.
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Ready to Subtitle Your Video?
Share your video or describe your project. We typically respond with a detailed quote within a few hours.
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