5 min read
Mathew Wahome
Greetings (Salamu)
Why greetings matter
In Kenya, greeting people shows respect. Kiswahili is a national and official language, and the KICD curriculum teaches Grade 4 learners to greet and respond politely. This lesson is taught in English with Kiswahili glosses.
Common greetings
| Kiswahili | English |
|---|---|
| Hujambo | Hello (to one person) |
| Hamjambo | Hello (to many people) |
| Habari yako? | How are you? |
| Habari za asubuhi | Good morning |
| Habari za mchana | Good afternoon |
| Habari za jioni | Good evening |
Replies
- Sijambo = I am fine (reply to Hujambo)
- Hatujambo = We are fine (reply to Hamjambo)
- Nzuri = Good / fine
- Salama = Peaceful / fine
Polite words
- Tafadhali = Please
- Asante = Thank you
- Karibu = Welcome
- Pole = Sorry (for someone's trouble)
- Kwa heri = Goodbye
- Tutaonana = See you later
Sample conversation
Amina: Hujambo, Juma? Juma: Sijambo, Amina. Habari yako? Amina: Nzuri, asante. Juma: Kwa heri.
Respect for elders
When greeting an elder, you may say "Shikamoo" (I hold your feet, a respectful greeting). The elder replies "Marahaba" (I accept it gladly).
Try it
- Greet a classmate and reply in Kiswahili.
- Say good morning and thank you in Kiswahili.
- Write a four-line conversation with a teacher using "Shikamoo".