Making requests (maombi) in Swahili

When requesting for something in Swahili remember to start with the word ‘Samahani’ (excuse me) or ‘tafadhali’ (please). Either of these words will make your request sound polite.  

Request 1

Emmy: Tafadhali (please) ninaomba (I request) sukari (sugar)

Matembe: Samahani(sorry) sina sukari kwa sasa (I don’t have sugar for now)

Emmy: Sawa. Ninaomba pia (also) chumvi (salt) kama unayo (if you have it)

Matembe: Hii hapa chukua (here it is, take).

Emmy: Shukrani (thanks).

Matembe: Haina shida (no problem)

Request 2

James: Samahani! (excuse), unaweza kunisaidia chakula (can you help me food)

Mary: Haina shida (no problem), chukua.

James: Asante sana (thank you very much).

Mary: Usijali (don’t worry).

Request 3

MUNGWE: Habari za mchana.

CHIRWA: Nzuri kabisa, za kwako!

MUNGWE: Njema. Ninaomba kitabu chako nisome.

CHIRWA: hiki hapa chukua (here it is, take it)

MUNGWE: Nashukuru sana jamaa yangu (my comrade).

CHIRWA: Usijali kamanda!