Essential Swahili Phrases
Most locals appreciate it when visitors try using a few words in Swahili, even if it’s just a simple ‘Mambo’ when greeting someone.
Ieva
Zanzibar, Tanzania, United Republic of
Mambo OR mambo vipi! - Hey or what’s up OR how’s it going?
Pole pole - Slowly
Freshi OR poa - A slang reply meaning ‘cool’ or ‘all good’
Asante OR asante sana - Thank you OR thank you very much!
Karibu sana - You’re very welcome
Hapana asante - No thank you! (great for use in curio shops and markets)
Ndiyo - Yes
Habari OR habari yako? - How are you?
Kwaheri - Goodbye
Sana - Very
Hakuna matata - No worries (it’s not just the ‘Lion King’ thing, they actually live by it!)
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