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The reason why Kiswahili/Swahili is so diverse is that there were many traders from around the world who visited the African coast and enriched the language with their native words. The language is still popular as there are around 50 million people speaking it. If you are looking for some business opportunities or simply have always dreamed of visiting Africa, don’t miss the chance to learn some of the common Kiswahili phrases. Even if this will be the first time you get familiar with this language, there are still good chances for you to pronounce the expressions correctly. The pronunciation is simple as you sound out every letter. Don’t change your mind and learn these expressions even if you will use them only once in your life. It is worth it. The people you talk to will appreciate your efforts.
1. Basic Kiswahili Phrases
Hello. – Habari.
How are you? – Habari.
Pleased to meet you. – Nafurahi kukuona.
Have a nice day! – Nakutakia siku njema!
Do you speak English? – Unazungumza Kingereza?
Excuse me. – Samahani.
Thank you. – Asante.
See you later. – Tutaonana.
2. Advanced Kiswahili Phrases
No worries – Hakuna matata
What’s up? – Mambo?
Can you help me? – Tafadhali, naomba msaada
Get well soon. – Ugua pole.
Just a little bit – Kidogo tu!
Where are you going? – Unakwenda wapi?
I need a doctor – Nataka kuona daktari.
Phrases to use when you are angry:
Go a!way – Nenda zako!
Leave me alone! – Usinisumbue!
3. Essentials for Tourists
How much is this? – Hii ni bei gani?
Do you give discounts? – Je, Unapunguza bei?
I have a credit/debit card. – Nina kadi.
May I take a picture? – Naomba kupiga picha?
Where’s the toilet? – Choo kiko wapi?
Airport – Uwanja wa ndege
Bus station – Stesheni ya basi
Bus stop – Bas stendi
Taxi stand – Stendi ya teksi
Train Station – Stesheni ya treni
Bank – Benki
Market – Soko
Police station – Kituo cha polisi
Post Office – Posta
Tourist Office – Ofisi ya watali
To be continued…