KISWAHILI FOR BEGINNERS: Phrase “chini ya uvungu”

TANZANIA: THE Swahili phrase “chini ya uvungu” literally translates to “under the bed/box”.

Meaning: Figuratively, it means something hidden or kept secret — usually something people don’t want others to know. It is similar to the English expression “swept under the rug” or “kept under wraps.”

Origin: The word uvungu in Swahili means the underside or bottom of something, especially the space under a bed, mat, or box. Traditionally, people would hide things ( like money, food, or personal items) under the bed or chest/box because it was considered a private and safe place.Over time, it became a metaphor for concealing matters, whether personal, social, or even political.

Example in a sentence:1. Swahili: Aliweka siri yake chini ya uvungu. English: He kept his secret hidden. 2. Swahili: Haya mambo yamewekwa chini ya uvungu ili watu wasiyajue. English: These matters have been swept under the rug so that people don’t find out.