One of the most daunting aspects of travelling to a foreign place, such as Zanzibar, is the prospect of confronting an unfamiliar language, and the potential for miscommunication, or lack of communication altogether. We’re here to set your mind at ease, and prepare you for an incredible trip to this island gem, by providing you with a handy language guide.
The most widely spoken language in Zanzibar is Swahili (Kiswahili locally), a Bantu language that is extensively spoken along the east African coast. This language is the common tongue of the region, prevalent in Kenya and Tanzania, and spoken as a second or third language is countries such as Uganda, Rwanda, Mozambique and Congo.
While the two official languages of Zanzibar are Swahili and English, not many locals are fluent in English, and rather use it as a means of casual communication. As such, Swahili is considered to be the dominant language on the island, and is, in fact, the language of instruction at primary schools. However, the roles are reversed in secondary school, where English becomes the language of instruction, as well as in institutions of higher learning, in urban areas, and at tourist hot spots.
Seen as the unifying language of the country, Swahili provides some common ground between approximately 158 ethnic groups. To aid you in your travels throughout Zanzibar, and to make your experience of the island that much more enjoyable, we’ve put together some common greetings and phrases.
Remember, the pronunciation of words in Swahili is as they are written, and the stress is on the second last last syllable. For example, “kijiko” is pronounced keeJEEko, and “karibu” is pronouced kaREEboo.
| How are you? | Jambo? |
| I am fine | Sijambo |
| Please | Tafadhali |
| Thank you | Asante |
| Thank you very much | Asante sana |
| OK | Sawa |
| Yes | Ndio |
| No | Hapana |
| What is your name? | Jina lako nani? |
| My name is… | Jina langu ni… |
| Where is the bank? | Benki iko wapi? |
| Taxi | Teksi |
| How much? | Pesa ngapi? |
| Excuse me | Samahani |
| Don’t worry | Usiogope |
| Menu | Menyu |
| Bill | Bili |
| Beer | Bia |
| Coffee | Kahawa |
| Tea | Chai |
| I would like to order… | Ningependa kuagiza… |
| I don’t understand | Sielewi |
To find out more about the languages in Zanzibar, or to book your trip to this beautiful island, get in touch with Essque Zalu Zanzibar today. Simply email reservations@essquehotels.com or call +255 778 683 960 and speak to a member of our friendly reservations team.
Image Credits: Flickr/Jorge Cancela, Flickr/Andrew Moore, Flickr/Bradclin Photography
Essque Zalu Zanzibar 