Chitonga – The Language of Zambia

There are over 80 different variations in the languages in Zambia, with English a key language, but most of the locals speak ‘Chitonga’.

Here are some of the key phrases in the Chitonga language:

– Mulibuti: Hello
– Mwapona: How are you? (Greeting)
– Kabotu: Good, Fine (the Answer)
– Twalumba: Thank you / Cheers
– Mwabuka Buti: Good Morning
– Mwayusa: Good Afternoon
– Kwasiya: Good Night
– Mwabonwa: Welcome
– Mwabonwa Bassa Noose: Very welcome
– Atwende: Let’s go!
– Iyii: Yes
– Pepe: no
– Nduwe Ni?: What is your name
– Ndime: My name is
– Mwana: Child
– Mukulana: Brother
– Bama: Mother
– Ndende: Father
– Banakazi: Ladies
– Balumi: Men
– Camuntendelele: Bicycle
– Mpongo: Goat
– Imbelele: Sheep
– Buusu: Mealie Meal
– Cikolo: School
– Malangazuba: Malaria
– Banyama: Animals
– Delesi: Dress
– Zisani: Clothes
– Mucaale Kaboto: Good bye

I regularly use about three of these phrases: Mulibuti, Twalumba, Mwabuka Buti.

However, one thing that is a staple when travelling abroad is a glaring omission from this list. The very important phrase, “Excuse me, where is the washroom?”! First one to do some research for me and help me with this one by posting it, I’ve got a Zambian souvenir I’ll send to you as an appreciation for doing so….

To view the blogs of other team members on this amazing Journey to Zambia, please visit – and become a member of – our community at http://www.mychildsponsorship.ca/kalomo!