Kiswahili of East Africa

Kiswahili of East Africa

Umoja: Kiswahili – The Language of Unity and Ocean Wind
Instructor: Teacher Muthoni
Date: Sundays – Start Date Coming Soon

pre-register for free below and be notified when the next cohort opens up. 
Time: 10am PDT | 1pm EDT | 5pm GMT | 6pm BST & WAT | 8pm EAT
Length: Absolute beginners $75 total (6 weeks) | AB1B – Absolute beginners 1b $100 Total (8 weeks)

Description:
Swahili is the voice of East Africa’s coastlines, trade routes, and cultural harmony. In this introductory course led by Teacher Muthoni, students will learn foundational Swahili greetings, responses, and self-introduction phrases used in daily life. Our introduction program is designed to reflect the warmth and unity (umoja) Swahili represents inviting learners into a space of respect, community, and peaceful learning. You will also explore how language shifts across regions while maintaining a shared identity among speakers from Kenya, Tanzania, and beyond.

Expect a welcoming classroom atmosphere that supports speaking aloud, listening closely, and participating comfortably. The class includes cultural notes, pronunciation support, and live engagement with the teacher. If you have been curious about Swahili or seeking a thoughtful introduction to the language, this is your opportunity to begin within a guided, grounded setting.

What You Will Learn

• The cultural and historical roots of Kiswahili, including its coastal East African origins and Kenyan influences
• Proper pronunciation and key sounds of the Kiswahili alphabet
• How to greet and respond with respect, especially when addressing elders, using culturally appropriate expressions
• Essential everyday phrases and conversation fillers to speak more naturally
• How to introduce yourself using singular and plural personal pronouns and the present tense of the verb “to be” (kuwa)
• How to ask and answer basic questions such as “What is your name?” and “Where are you from?”
• Numbers 1–20 and how to count objects, ask for age, and respond with your age in Kiswahili
• Subject prefixes, verb conjugation, and sentence formation in the present tense
• How to say goodbye and close conversations politely and appropriately

This class is ideal for adult beginners or language lovers looking to build a grounded, respectful, and practical foundation in Kiswahili.

Reserve your seat today and come ready to learn, speak, and connect with the language of the Swahili Coast.