Mulogoli Words and Ways-Build Your Vocabulary

This short introduction to the Maragoli language is meant to add to our efforts of sharing the spirit of mulembe through language, by frequently using Luhya words to bring to life our content. We do this as a gentle way for non-native Luhya speakers to learn Luhya easy, free and fast.

Mwodi

Sorry.

Umwimani

Refers to a person who is selfish. Not generous.

Mbeku

It means ‘please help me with’. Such as in, mbeku isoda; meaning: please give me a soda.

Agirigari

The truth.

Uveshi

Lies.

Uvwoni

Evil or trouble. On the other hand, this word sounds like the Maragoli word for the fish delicacy omena or daggaa – uvuoni.

Sieva

Dance.

Asande

Thank You.

Inzira

Road.

Muiduka

In the shop. In Swahili duka is shop. It is a word with Indian roots. However, the Maragoli word kuduka means ‘to arrive’ or to get to a place.

Mu chandangu

Chandangu is the veranda area/ backyard of traditional Maragoli house.

Murimi

Murimi is the Maragoli word for land, particularly arable land. For example, one can say murimi gwa baba. Translated, this would mean: Baba’s shamba.

Kiguti

Kiguti is the Maragoli word for field. Today, boys play football mkiguti. Growing up, we herded cows mkiguti.