Language - Luganda

Although English is the official language of Uganda, most children speak their native mother tongue until reaching primary s chool age. However, you are always likely to meet people who speak English well enough to assist travelers especially in cities and towns. Most people in Kampala understand English. Local languages vary by region. In the Masaka region the majority of the people speak Luganda. Lunyankole and Lukiiga are also spoken in this region. Below are a few commonly used words and phrase. For a complete guide to learning Luganda, please Buganda Kingdom website www.buganda.com  

ENGLISH	LUGANDA
How are you?	Olyotya e yo?
I am fine.	Buluungi
Sir	Ssebo
Madam	Nyabo
A child	Omwana
A boy	Omuleenzi
A girl	Omuwala
Mother	Maama
Father	Tatta
Where do you come from?	Ovawaa?
I come from (America)	Nva (America)
It is ok	Kale
Who are you?	Gwe ani?
I am (Jessica)	Ye nze (Matthew)
Food	Emere
Water	Amazzii
You are welcome	Tusanuse okulaba
Welcome back	Kulika yo
Thank you	Webbale
Come	Jjangu
Go	Genda
Pray	Sabba
Eat	Lya
Sit	Tuula
Here	Waano
A Chair	Entebbe
I want	Njagala

Greetings are very important in Uganda and it is considered rude to speak to someone without formally greeting especially you are stranded and want to ask for direction. Taking the time to greet someone with, “Hello, how are you?” is courteous and well received.

Coming from a foreign country, you may be greeted by children and others with shouts of “Muzungu!” followed by whatever English words they are familiar with. Do not take offense to this term, it is meant to recognize your uniqueness and calling out to you as such is a form of greeting for them. Smiles, waves, or answers back by you will be well received.