Language
English is the official national language, taught in grade schools and universities, used in offices and courts of law, used by most newspapers and some radio broadcasts. Out of the over fifty (50) local languages; Luganda is the most widely used of the Ugandan local languages, preferred for native language publications in the capital and taught in some schools. Swahili is not a native language, but widely used in the northern and eastern parts of the country.
Here is a Guide to the Words Commonly Used in Local Languages
LANGUAGE WORD
Greetings
English How are you? I’m fine
Luganda Olyotya? Gyendi (GYE is pronounced JE)
Swahili Habari gani/ Habari yako, Muzuri
The word Money
English Money; How much money?
Luganda Sente; Sente meka?
Swahili Pesa; Pesa ngapi?
The Magic Words
English Please, Thank you, Sorry
Luganda Bambi, Webale, Nsonyiwa
Swahili Thafadhali, Asanti, Nisamehe
Asking a Taxi to Drop You at the Stage of Destination
English Parking/ Stage
Luganda Mumaso awo/ Stage
Swahili Mbele Hapo
Numbers
1 Emu 6 Mukaaga
2 Biri 7 Musanvu
3 Satu 8 Munana
4 Nya 9 Mwenda
5 Tano 10 Kumi
Bargaining and haggling are common in Uganda’s markets, ranging from groceries, craft and souvenirs shops to boutiques; as prices are sometimes hiked for those who appear to be unfamiliar with the country; including all non-blacks. But note that bargaining or haggling is not allowed in supermarkets as the products are price tagged.
As a caring tour company, Eco-Specialists Tours advises the clients to buy what they want in supermarkets or shopping malls; if not, please consult our staff whenever you want to do any shopping, to avoid being cheated.
Eco-Specialists Tours has a pleasure to take you around the country gifted by nature. You are inside Africa, Enjoy the Pearl
