Jambiani Local Customs

4 more images

Basic Swahili

As you walk down the road, your conversations will go like this:

You will hear (shouted at you) – “Jambo!” (Hello)
You reply – “Jambo!”
”Habari?” (what is the news or how are you?)
”Nzuri” (I am fine)
You usually hear “Karibu” (you are welcome here) sometimes the name of the village is said as well. I often heard “Karibu Jmbiani.”
Always reply “Asante Sana!” (Thank You very much)

Sometimes after you have spoken to someone a little longer or purchased something from them you will be called “Rafiki” which means friend. This is heart felt and you rarely hear it unless you have become friends – in the village.

If the word “Rafiki” is shouted at you as a greeting – they are trying to sell you something, usually in Stone Town.

A Few Basics Words/Phrases:
Yes = Ndiyo
No = Hapana
Okay = Sawa
Maybe = Labda
How are you? = Habari Yako?
Good = Nzuri
Thank you = Asante
Hello = Jambo
I am fine = Sijambo
Please = Tafadhali (the dh is pronounced like a th)
Goodbye = Kwaheri
What is your name? = Jina lako ni nani?
My name is ...= Jina langu ni ...
I don't speak Swahili = Sisemi Kiswahili

Bia = Beer
Bia baridi = Cold beer
Daktari = Doctor
Duka = Shop
Hakuna matata No problem
Karibu welcome

Rafiki Friend

A young person to an older one: "Shikamoo!" (originally it meant "I touch your feet" as a sign of respect) and the greeted answers, "Marahabaa!" (I acknowledge your respect!).

*** Please note that as this is a Muslim Country – never greet a woman in conversation outside. You may respond if they greet you first. ***