KISWAHILI FOR BEGINNERS: Letter J

The Swahili word “juma” has two common uses:1. As a name of a person Meaning in English: Juma is a male given name in Swahili-speaking countries, especially in East Africa. Origin: It comes from the Arabic word “Jumʿa” (meaning “Friday” or “gathering”), often given to a boy born on a Friday. Example in a sentence: Swahili: Juma ni rafiki yangu wa shule. English: Juma is my school friend.

2. As part of the days of the week in Swahili, the days of the week are based on the word “juma”, meaning “week,” combined with a number or descriptor:

Swahili                 English

Jumatatu             Monday

Jumanne             Tuesday

Jumatano            Wednesday

Alhamisi              Thursday

Ijumaa                 Friday

Jumamosi            Saturday

Jumapili               Sunday

Example in a sentence: Swahili: Tutakutana siku ya Jumanne. English: We will meet on Tuesday.