4 min read
Mathew Wahome
Listening and Speaking (Kusikiliza na Kuzungumza)
Overview
In the Junior School CBC (KICD), Kiswahili begins with Kusikiliza na Kuzungumza, the strand of listening and speaking. Learners practise greeting, introducing themselves and conversing politely. This note is in English with Kiswahili words glossed.
Common greetings (Salamu)
| Kiswahili | English |
|---|---|
| Hujambo? | How are you? (to one person) |
| Sijambo | I am fine |
| Habari za asubuhi? | How is the morning? |
| Nzuri | Fine |
| Shikamoo | Respectful greeting to an elder |
| Marahaba | Reply to shikamoo |
| Kwaheri | Goodbye |
Polite expressions
- Tafadhali: please.
- Asante: thank you.
- Karibu: welcome / you are welcome.
- Pole: sorry (sympathy).
- Samahani: excuse me / forgive me.
Good listening (Kusikiliza)
Look at the speaker, do not interrupt, and note key points. After listening, retell the main idea (wazo kuu).
Good speaking (Kuzungumza)
Speak clearly, loudly enough, and use correct pronunciation. Kiswahili vowels are pure: a, e, i, o, u are each said the same way every time, and each syllable ends in a vowel.
Worked example
A short dialogue:
- Juma: Hujambo, Neema?
- Neema: Sijambo, Juma. Habari za nyumbani?
- Juma: Nzuri, asante. Gloss: "Hello, Neema?" "I am fine, Juma. How is home?" "Fine, thank you."
Self-introduction
"Jina langu ni Amina. Nina umri wa miaka kumi na mbili. Ninasoma darasa la saba." (My name is Amina. I am twelve years old. I am in Grade 7.)
Try it
- Greet a classmate and an elder using the correct greeting.
- Introduce yourself in three sentences.
- Write the meaning of tafadhali, samahani and pole.
- Role-play a market conversation with a partner.