One of the best way to get to know people is to learn their language. Even a simple hello sequence can get you a long way. With that philosophy in mind I’ve tried to learn two new words of Luganda per day. Turns out Luganda is one of the few languages Google Translate doesn’t help with. Also turns out there are very few resources in general for the intrepid learner of languages. There are some which are pretty good though, although even those are incomplete works in progress.
I started off with the basic hello, and goodbye. And moved on to other phrases from there. On thing that never really stuck me before is how many ways there are in English, to say hello. Well Luganda is no different…
There are a lot of ways to greet someone. I’m still learning new ones. Here are a few of the more common:
Hi? (informal).........................Ki kati?
What's up..............................Ki ki (chi-chi)
You still there (informal).............Ochaliyo
How are you?...........................Oli otya?
--- Sir................................Ssebo
--- Madam..............................Nyabo
Have a nice day........................Siiba bulungi
Good night.............................Sula bulungi (on retiring)
Good morning...........................Wasuze otya nno
I am OK................................GyendiWhat is most striking though is that Luganda is a very respectful language. The language usually reflects the tone of the peoples outlook. Uganda is a very respectful society, particularly in day to day interactions. Sir and Madam are used liberally. An excellent reflection of the nature of Ugandans.