Swahili is a national language in Kenya and Tanzania; it is also one of the most widely spoken languages in Africa, with an estimated population of over 100 million speakers. Swahili is one of the official languages of the African Union and the East African Community. It is recognized as a unifying language for various ethnic groups and nations in East Africa. When coming to us, it’s worth knowing a few basic words.
English
Jambo – Hello! How are you?
Mambo – Hey!
Poa – Fine!
Karibu – Welcome / Please (when offering something) / You’re welcome
Kwaheri – Goodbye
Asante (sana) – Thank you (very much)
Tafadhali – Please
Samahani – Excuse me / I’m sorry
Hakuna matata – No problem / No worries
ndiyo – yes
hapana – no
Mimi ni … – My name is…
Ninatoka Polanda – I am from Poland
Ninakaa… – I live in…
Sisemi kiswahili. – I don’t speak Swahili.
Sielewi – I don’t understand
Unasema Kiingereza? – Do you speak English?
Choo iko wapi? – Where is the toilet?
Lala salama – Sleep well
Moja – one
Mbili – two
Tatu – three
Nne – four
Tano – five
Sita – six
Saba – seven
Nane – eight
Tisa – nine
Kumi – ten