From the comments that have been submitted for translation so far we have made the following classifications. We hope this makes it easier for you to find what you are looking for.
This section will be updated frequently to reflect new enquries, so check back here often for the latest.
We invite you to contribute where you think a better translation is possible.
The following abbreviations are used:
Sing. = Singular
Pl. = Plural (Note: In Bemba this is also the form used to show respect)
Romance
- “I love you” can be translated as “Nalikutemwa (singular) / Nalimutemwa (plural)“
- “You are the most beautiful girl in the world and I love you very much” = “Pali bonse abanakashi muno calo, iwe niwe wapwililika. Nalikutemwa nganshi.”
- “Thank you for making me complete” = “Ndekutotela pakumpwishisho mweo”
- “I hope that our relationship will last for long time” = “Mpepa fye ukuti icitemwiko cesu ciletwalilila.”
- “I’m forever yours.” = “Ndi obe pe na pe”
- “Nothing happens by accident as we are led to believe.” = “Tekwesha ukusumina ukuti ifintu fiicitikila fye.”
- “I believe our paths were crossed for a reason.” = Ine nalisumina ukuti kwaliba umulandu twakumanine.”
- ” I wish I would have beautiful singing voice because than I would sing love songs for you.” = “A nkwata ishiwi lyakwimbilamo iliusuma nga nda kwimbila inyimbo sha citemwiko”
- “I love to wake up every day knowing that I’m with you” = “Lyonse nganashibuka mutulo, cilampela insansa ukwibukisha ukuti uli mutemwikwa wandi.”
- “I missed….midnight conversations, 7 am wake up calls and all those non-work related Emails.” = “Nalefuluka…ilyashi lya pakati kabushiku, ukunshibusha kumaca, namakalata ya ‘Email’ ayashali yakuncito.”
- He is your husband = Mûlume obe (sing.), Bâlume benu (pl.)
- He is not my husband = Temulume wandi (sing.), Tebalume bandi (pl.)
- “Your eyes, your smile and your gorgeous body definitely is made by God, because only God can make such a beautiful body as yours” = Amenso yobe, uluseko lobe, nomubili uishaiwamina – fyonse ifi filelanga fye ukuti cacine ni Lesa Kabumba ewakupangile. Ni Lesa eka eunga panga umubili uwawama ifi.”
- “Faith, hope and love” = “Cisumino, cisubilo ne citemwiko.”
- “I thank you for making my life whole.” = “Ndekutotela pakumpwishisho mweo”
- “Missing you already!” = Ndemufuluka!” (singular: “Ndekufuluka.”)
- “Wake up and live” = “Shibuka, ba umûmi.” (The second “U” in “umumi” is written with a caret (hat) to denote the “…moo…” sound)
- “Your eyes, your smile and your gorgeous body definitely is made by God, because only God can make such a beautiful body as yours” = Amenso yobe, uluseko lobe, nomubili uishaiwamina – fyonse ifi filelanga fye ukuti cacine ni Lesa Kabumba ewakupangile. Ni Lesa eka eunga panga umubili uwawama ifi.”
Family Members
- Father = Tata
- Mother = Mayo
- Brother = Ndume
- Sister = Nkashi
- Uncle (paternal) = Tata mwaice (“small father”)
- Auntie (paternal) = Mayosenge
- Uncle (maternal) = Yama
- Auntie (maternal) = Mayo mwaice (“small mother”)
- Grandfather = Shikulu
- Grandmother = Mama
- Father-in-law = Tatafyala
- Mother-in-law = Mamafyala
- Husband = Mulume
- Wife = Mukashi
- Husband (or Wife) – general = Mwina mwandi
- Friend = Munandi
Birthday
- “Happy Birthday” = “Sefyeni ubushiku mwafyelwe” (Plural) / = “Sefya ubushiku wafyelwe” (Singular)
- “Welcome to Zambia!” = “Mwaiseni ku Zambia!
- “How is your day going?” = Mwatandala shani? or “Mwabomba shani?”
- “Forever sisters” = “Inkashi sha muyayaya”
- “Best wishes for your interviews” = “Mukende bwino kuma “interview”” or “Mukende bwino kukweshiwa.”
- “I wish you all the very best” = “?”
General Chat
-
“Thank you” = Natôtela (s), Twatôtela (pl.)
-
“You are welcome” = Awe, cilifye, mukwai (“No, It’s ok”)
-
“Come” = Isa (singular), Iseni (pl.)
-
“Follow me” = Nkonka (s), Nkonkeni (pl.)
-
“He is sick” = Mûlwele (s), Bâlwele (pl.)
-
“Eat now” = Lya nombaline (s), Lyeni nombaline (pl.)
-
“Sleep now” = Sendama nombaline (s), Sendameni nombaline (pl.)
-
“My house” = Iɧanda yandi
-
“My family” = Ulupwa lwandi
-
“He will help you” = Alâmwafwilisha (s), Balâmwafwilisha (pl.)
-
“I’m really tired so I’m going to rest.” = “Ninaka sana. Naya ntusheko.”
- .“It would have been great had I been there” = “Ngeko naciba nga chawama sana”
-
“I like….” = “Nalitemwa……”
- “I like dogs.” = “Nalitemwa imbwa.”
- “I like children.” = “Nalitemwa abana abanono.”
Religion
- God = Lesa
- Son Jesus = Umwana Yesu
- Praise = Amalumbo (noun), Lumbanya (verb)
- Glorify = Cindika (singular), Cindikeni (plural)
- You are worthy = Ulyu wayana (= Uli uwa yana)(sing.), Mulyabayana (=Muli aba yana)(pl.)
- We exalt you = Twamusansabika
- “I pray God gives your heart desires today” = “Ndelomba Lesa akupele fyonse umutima obe ulekabila muli buno bushiku”
- God bless you = Lesa akupâle (s), Lesa amupâle (pl.)
- “It is near” = “Cili mupepi”
Dog Training
- “Sit” = “Ikala”
- “Lay down” = “Lambalala”
- “Stay” = “Shâla”
- “Watch me” = “Ndolesha”
- “Roll over” = “Kunkuluka”
- “Come” = “Isa”
Check out the comments section HERE for more translations.
______________________________
Are there any comprehensive grammar books and dictionaries on sale? I went to Kasama and Mbala and came back with just a pocket dictionary written by Rev. E Hoch, W,F. Please recommend some and tell me the address, if you happen to know.
Hi taqi6,
Bemba-English Dictionary, revised edition normally retails for around £50, but is difficult to get hold of.
Title Bemba-English Dictionary, revised edition.
Type Dictionaries
Author White Fathers
Year of Publication 1954
Variety Bemba
Info London: Longmans and Green. Pp. 1505.
There seem to be a good number of books on grammar. One that we have sent off for this morning is:
“A Grammar of the Bemba Language as Spoken in Northeast Rhodesia” (ISBN: 1146012799 / 1-146-01279-9) Schoeffer , Author
We’ll let you know what we think of it once we have gone through it.
If ever you are in Lusaka, there’s a treasure trove of archives at FENZA (a Catholic resource centre on Faiths and Cultures in Zambia). They also run Bemba courses. You will find their contact details and map here:
http://www.fenza.org/aboutus.html
We’ll keep looking and we will report back here. If you do come across something interesting, please let us know.
Thanks for your participation.
How much by dictionary ? I’m interrested
Continue with the same thing l like too much proverbs
As far as I understand, Ndeya mone nkoko, in which case "muku" has been omitted, has the same meaning as Ndeya mukumone nkoko.
Therefore,
First, can I take away the "uku" in Ndefwaya ukushita isabi?
Second, can I change this "uku" to "muku"?
Third, can I fuse the sentence to Ndefwayo kushita isabi?
“Ndeya mone nkoko” can be loosely interchanged with “Ndeya mukumone nkoko”
There is a subtle difference in meaning, though:
“Ndeya mone nkoko” can be interpreted as “While I’m there, I will see the chicken(s)”, where it could be one of many things you might do.
“Ndeya mukumone nkoko” is “I am going to see the chicken(s)” as in when you are describing the purpose of your visit.
Removing “uku” from “Ndefwaya ukushita isabi?” will change the sentence from “I want to buy fish” to “I want buy fish”
You cannot change “uku” to “muku” in this case.
You got the fusion right.
There are a lot of variations and rules in Bemba. You might find the following resource useful as you explore the nuances of the language:
http://ufdc.ufl.edu/UF00072085/00001/1j
When writing for reading purposes, the sentence “Ndefwaya ukushita isabi?” can be rightly written as “Ndefwayo Kushita isabi”. This allows the reader to read as though ‘a’ at the end of ‘ndefwaya’ and ‘u’ at the beginning of ‘ukushita’ are there. So to a listener he can’t detect that change only the one reading can and only if they are super meticulous.
The One,
You are correct about the fusion of vowels when it comes to pronouncing adjacent ones. For a beginner, it can be confusing to present two spellings for the same word. This is one reason to write in the simple form. A more advanced learner will be able to find these instances and will say it right.
I am preparing a lesson on fusion of vowels to shed more light on this topic.
I will look forward to your feedback on that.
Thanks.
I am muganda from Uganda but I am amazing with your words same words like ours but different meaning or same meaning like tata, omwana,enkoko or related meaning like mama ours mother but yours grandmother
The similarities between these languages could be indicative of historical migrations between the two regions.
Thank you very much.
Pakokola tatumonana.
Nshakumonapo inshita iitali.
Kale nakumwe nepo.
Do all of the above mean "long time no see"?
Which one is better?
Hi Taqi6,
Yes. All three mean “Long time no see”
“Pakokola tatumonana” can be used in the singular as well as plural formats. It is also has a more respectful connotation for formal occasions.
You may be aware that in Bemba, pointing at a person when you speak is not respectful. In speech, the equivalent is using the word “You”
“Pakokola tatumonana” is “It’s been a long time, we haven’t seen each other.” avoids the “you”
“Nshakumonapo inshita iitali” = “I haven’t seen you in a long time”(Singular)
“Nshamumonapo inshita iitali” (Plural) (A subtle emphasis on the “mu” changes the meaning from talking about “you” to talking about “them”(that person).
“Kâle nakumwenepo” (Singular) – note the caret on the “a” for the “aa” sound = “It’s been a long time since I saw you“.
“Kâle namumwenepo” (Plural)
Depending on the way and the context in which the words are uttered, the “you” versions can convey a sense of intimacy and warmth.
How can I get this books
The repetition can be used for emphasis, e.g. "Nokwenda alyendele!" = "Did he/she walk!"
You could simply say "Ndakufuluka!" = "I miss you" and that would be ok.
"Ndekufuluka" = "I am missing you." (present tense)
“I love and miss you so much” = “Nalikutemwa, nokufuluka ndakufuluka sana”
Is there any mistake with this translation?
There seems to be two "fuluka". Can you explain?
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
1, I found tthat some imperative sentences end with "e", some don't. Will you please explain why ?
For example:
God bless you = Lesa akupâle
Tell me! = Unjebe！
Teach me now！ Unfunde ililine!
2, I asked my friends to translate "long time no see" into Bemba and got three answers.
Pakokola tatumonana.
Nshakumonapo inshita iitali.
Kale nakumwe nepo.
I understand the first two very well, but not the last one. Will you please check and explain?
1, please illustrate the meaning of "upana" and "sobelekanya" each with one or two examples.
2, Is the fusion that occurrs in Bemba a "must" or a "may"? In Naya mone nkoko, is it ok if I say Naya mona inkoko?
Taqi6,
“Uku sobelekanya” = “to instigate”
“Sobelekanya” = “Instigate”
“Wilaleta ilyashi lyakusobelekenya” -> fusion -> “Wilaletelyashi lyakusobelekanya” = “Don’t you start divisive gossip”
“Ukusobelekanya kobe kwaleta ulubuli” = “Your instigation has resulted in a/this fight”
This is a good one to include in our online dictionary.
Taqi6, you must be exposed to some deep Bemba!
“Nomba twaupana” = “We are now married”
“Ngatwaupana …” = “When we get married ….”
“Sobelekanya” = ? (We will get back to you on this one!)
If you don’t fuse the vowels you will be understood by your listeners but you will sound stilted.
In an exam for grammar you would lose marks.
"What a beautiful flower!" = "Iyee! Ilube li lisuma (sana)"
"How lovely the child is!" = "Iyee! Uyu mwana mûsuma!"
"Iyee!" = "Wow!"
"Sana" = "Absolutely"
Will you please teach me how to make exclamations in Bemba?
For example, how to say "what a beautiful flower!" and "How lovely the child is!"
Please help translate:
I go to church every Sunday. Unfortunately, I didn't go yesterday because one of my best friends was ill.
“I go to church every Sunday. Unfortunately, I didn’t go yesterday because one of my best friends was ill” = “Cila mulungu ndaya ku ng’anda ya Mulungu. Kuceshamo, mailo nshaile pamulandu wakuti cibusa wandi ali mulwele.”
P/S We owe you an apology for three typographical errors that slipped through one of the earlier translations of the hymn!!!!
“Kacema” (Shepherd) is spelt without an “h”
“Ndemipela” should be spelt with a “u”: “Ndemupela” to make it grammatically correct
“Muchima” should read “Mutima” (Heart).
We love your video and linked it to our Christmas message.
Merry Christmas.
Now we have three versions of translation:
Naya mone nkoko ( Naya mona inkoko ).
Ndeya mukumona inkoko.
Naya mukumona inkoko.
Frankly speaking, I am still not quite sure which one is correct, which one isn't.
First, are all these translations acceptable to native speakers?
Second, Naya mone nkoko comes from Naya mona inkoko, in which case the "a" in mona and the "i" in inkoko are fused. Is it so?
The simple answer is that you will be perfectly understood if you use any of the three versions of the sentence.
The answer to your second point is “Yes.” Vowels are fused if they are adjacent each other on the end of adjoining words as follows:
a + i become a long e (eg. “Ipika inkoko” becomes “Ipike nkoko” = “Cook the chicken”)
Please help me check the following translation.
I love different languages. I want to learn them. Would you please help me to learn your language?
"Nalitemwa ukusambilila ifitundu ifya pusana pusana. Ndefwayo uku sambilila. Kuti mwangwafyako ukusambilila ifitundu chenu?"
“Nalitemwa ukusambilila ifitundu ifya pusana pusana. Ndefwayo uku sambilila. Kuti mwangwafyako ukusambilila ifitundu chenu?”
“Ifitundu” is plural and should go with “fyenu”
“Mwangafwako” (correct spelling)
If you are addressing several speakers of the same language you would use “…. icitundu cenu” (referring to their singular language).
The rest of the interpretation is good.
I was on my way to the coop and told my Zambian friends to put into Bemba what I was doing.
Here are the answers:
Ndeya mukumona inkoko.
Naya mukumona inkoko.
First, what is the difference between Ndeya and Naya.
Second, why mukumona instead of ukumona is used.
Thank you.
“Ndeya” is a more descriptive form of the word which gives less sense of immediacy, as in “I will be going to …..”
“Naya” is used to give a sense of “Now.”
“Mona” = “See”
“Ukumona” = “To see” (the act of seeing). Verb infinitive
“Uku…” is the prefix of the noun “mona”
“Mukumona” : “Mu…” is used as a transitive verb, indicating the speaker’s involvement in the action.
“Naya mona inkoko” written as “Naya mone nkoko.” is a more direct and quite correct way of saying it.
Do you know if there are any free translator mechanisms — not where you have to pay — on the Internet for translating English into Bemba?
Cheryl,
We are not aware of any other free translation service apart from the one provided on this forum.
If any of our readers are aware on such a service, we hope they will write in and let us know.
"Thank you for making me complete" = "Ndekutotela pakumpwishisho mweo"
Please note that Bemba is very cruel sometimes. If you found the right side of the meaning only, with the English part missing, it actually means: "Thank you for finishing me off"!!!
Careful with Bemba.
“Thank you for making me complete” = “Ndekutotela pakumpwishisho mweo”
that translation can be slightly misleading. “Thank you for making my life complete” translated English is ” Ala ndatasha pa fyo walengwa ubumi bwandi ukuba ubwakumanina”. My translation is based on the thought being communicated. Tekuti umuntu umbi apwishe ubumi bwandi nakalya. So its better translating thoughts and not words. Because you can’t tell your fiancee that “Ndekutotela pakumpwishisho mweo”. Its misleading, hope i haven’t offended you just thought of adding my idea too.
The One,
Thank you for your thoughts. They are most welcome.
As a translator, how close you stick to the words is a choice you have to make all the time.
I find the decision harder when trying to translate romantic expressions or poetry. That’s why I like your idea of sticking closer to the thought than to the words.
I grew up in Kitwe so I speak “Bemba Lite.” It does not lend itself well to the conveyance of deeper meaning, hence the struggle to find the best translation. This is why I appreciate your input so much.
Nyanja.
Olemekezeka atate atu akumwamba,Ndine olakwa osayenekela chikondi chanu komanso munandipatsa chikondi.Kambiri ndima choka munjila yo yenekela komanso mumanibweza munjila yakufuna kwanu.
Ndipempha mundikhululukile machimo anga atate a kumwamba ndi kupempha kuti zonse zamene ndichita dzikhale dza munjila yakufuna kwanu.Ndiku kondani mulungu wanga,ndileteni pafupi nainu.Dzikomo
How to say :
Wish you a Merry Christmas and Hapyy New Year.
Wish you make more money in the coming year.
Wish you a good health always.
(The Chinese are still celebrating New Year. These are what their say very often.)
Thank you, and the same to you.
Can you translate the foregoing sentences into Bemba?
Thank you!
hey may you please translate this for me to bemba and nyanja
'God you are great and always faithful.I am not worthy yet you still love me.I stray away and yet you always bring me back to you.Have mercy on me a sinner dear father and may all i do bring glory to you.i love you God,draw me near to you."
thank you
Dear JS, In many languages in Africa the word for life and health is the same. Does this also count for Bemba and Nyanja? Could you tell me the words in both languages and the differences in meaning, if any? Thank you very much in advance!
Birgitte,
It is true the same terms tend to be used in African languages.
In Bemba,
Life = Bumi / Mweo,
Standard of life = Bwikalo, Miliile
Eternal life = Bumi bwa pe
Health = Bumi / Mutende
Peace = Mutende
My Nyanja is rusty, but I managed to consult the free Nyanja(Chicewa)-English Dictionary on Fenza.org:
Life = Moyo
Health = Moyo
Peace = Mtendere
Hi JS,
Thank you for your previous help that is always so prompt! I am working on a thesis after a year of fieldwork in Lusaka, so you might hear from me regularly in the next few months – I hope that is ok? Someone gave me this proverb and a translation that I’d like your expert eyes on: “Uupafiwe eulwa nechibi” I am not sure what language it is, but I was told that it means something like: “whoever is burdened is the one who fights his way through the door” – meaning that people in need learn to find solutions, or something? Do you know the language? Is the spelling correct and is the translation and meaning somehow correct? Kind regards Birgitte
Hi Birgitte,
Thank you for your participation on Kitweonline. We hope you will continue and wish you all the best with your thesis.
“Uupanfiiwe eulwa neciibi.” is Bemba and can be translated as “It is up to the one who is pressed to grapple with the door.”
In the old days, village hut doors were secured at night using twine rope or poles because they did not have locks. When someone woke up in the middle of the night and they were in a hurry to go to the outdoor toilet, they were more likely to jump up and start unlocking the door than to gently tap someone sleeping next to them and ask them to please open the door for them. They took urgent, direct action.
The same applies to life situations. Other people may not appreciate the urgency of the situation. It is up to you to take charge of the situation when you sense the need.
Always trust in yourself; you know more than you think you do.
hai sir js please can translate for me in Bemba
Hi Farooq,
“Always trust in yourself” = “Ule icetekela”
“You know more than you think you do.” = “Nelyo utwishike, amano yobe yaalicilapo.”
” kanshi “mean what JS sir
Hi Farooq,
“Kanshi” = Therefore / As a result / Consequently.
Dear Js,
Would you please help me translate following:
“Wild life”
“The wild”
“Nature”
“Earth”
“Animals” (wild animals)
“Animal behavior”
“Chimpanzee”
“Love”
“Moon/Moonlight”
“Dreams”
Also if you know some zambian quotes about natureor love I would be happy to know.
The spelling is very importent because it is for a very personal tattoo.
Thank you Again
Best regards
Anne-Sofie
“Wild life”
“Wild life” – Ubwinanama
“The wild” – Impanga
“Nature” – Ifilengawa na Lesa
“Earth” – Isonde
“Animals” (wild animals) – Inama sha mpanga
“Animal behavior” – imibele ya nama
“Love” – Icitemwiko
“Moon/Moonlight” – Umweshi/Ulubuuto lwa mweshi
“Dreams” – Ifiloto
Thank you very much.
What is the difference between the word ubwinanama and impanga?
Hi Anne-Sofie,
Ubwinanama = Animals (The animal kingdom)
Impanga = Forest
Thank you very much!
But what is the difference then between Ifilengawa na Lesa and Impanga?
Also to my tatto I would like the correct words with the english meaning of Nature or Animals or Wildlife? What would be the most correct words?
Another thing my husband calls me Abakashi bandi and not Mukashi, howcome, is the dialag another?
hi, what is to trade in bemba? am looking for one word but not “ukushitisha” .
Hi Leah,
Trade = Amakwebo / Lukwebo / Ikwebo
Translation of Accident is amasanso. If you have listened to Bemba on the radio they will say, Amasanso ya pamu sebo
How you do say “Amazing” in Bemba?
Hi Corrie,
Amazing = Caku sungusha (It is amazing)
Ba Editor,
Ku landashani
Get off
stop jumping on my head
Hi Corrie,
Get off = “Ika” or “Ikila” (singular), and “Ikeni” or “Ikileni” (plural).
Stop = Leka (s), Lekeni (p).
Jumping on my head = Kuntolokela ku mutwe (or “pa mutwe”)
Leko kuntolokela ku mutwe (s).
Lekeni ukuntolokela ku mutwe (p).
Ifikengwa na Lesa – God’s Creation
Tatoo – inembo
Ubwina Nama – Animal Kingdom (The description give a “soul” like element to animals. It has that touch that animals talk to each other across species). I would not mind a tatoo like that.
I remember a guy’s nick name “Abena mbwa”. Cool name
I actually love Ubwina Nama. Is the spelling correct and is the word in two?
Anne-Sofie,
The word is in two “Ubwina nama”
The spelling is correct.
Translate
God
Son Jesus
Praise
Glorify
You are worthy
We exaltyou
Hi Richard,
God = Lesa
Son Jesus = Umwana Yesu
Praise = Amalumbo (noun), Lumbanya (verb)
Glorify = Cindika (singular), Cindikeni (plural)
You are worthy = Ulyu wayana (= Uli uwa yana)(sing.), Mulyabayana (=Muli aba yana)(pl.)
We exalt you = Twamusansabika
Hello Sir
How do You say: “You are really nice and I would like to know you better.”
Thanks
Hi Steven,
“You are really nice and I would like to know you better.” = “Waliba nomutimo usuma. Ndefweya twishibane bwino.”
What des this say?
amuna kupaka pano ziko iwe wa limbikila umozi
Hi JJ,
“Amuna kupaka pano ziko iwe wa limbikila umozi” is Nyanja and it means “There are so many men out there. You have stuck to only one.”
Ba Editor,
Napapata translate the following paragraph into Icibemba. Natotela.
Everyone has sinned. And because we have sinned we deserve to be removed from God’s presence when we die and go to hell. But because God loves us so much, he sent his son Jesus to die on the cross for our sins. If we believe he is our savior he will forgive our sins and bring us into his presence in heaven when we die.
Hi Corrie,
Here is the Bemba Version of the passage:
Umuntu onse alibembuka, elyo napamulandu wakubembuka kwesu tulingile ukufumishiwa ku cinso cakwa Lesa ngatwafwa nokuya ku gehena (umulilo wa pe). Lelo pamulandu wakuti Lesa alitutemwisha, alitumine umwana wakwe Yesu ukwisa tufwila pa lupanda pamulandu wa membu shesu. Ngatwamucetela ukuti ni Kalubula wesu akatubelela uluse kumembu shesu nokutupalamika muceni cakwe mu mulu nga twafwa.
Im confused about now,
I have this song we sing, confused coz i thought it was shona now am told it could be Bemba or some language from Malawi. Pls help me know what it says:
……”Ambuye wanga Munifungatire pamene inendi mafesa mafuto
…….”Ambuye ndiku mbukira paulo anazo zindwatu kutegwa kwa bwino
Moyo wanga ndiwafoka munilimbize mkali kweletete za kwatu
Ndimafesa mukilira michoze misosi munitoto za mbuyee.
Pls assist
cheers
This song is in chiChewa spoken in Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique.
It is certailny not Bemba
Thanks so much Lunda, now i know its Chichewa, could you be knowing what the song says?
The song has Nyanja or call it Chewe words depending on whether you are in Zambia or Malawi though Chewa is spoken in both countries.
If you need more clarifications please do not hesitate to contact me
God bless
Richard Mwanza
Thanks Richard mwanza, i really need more clarification on this with regards to what the song says, translation into English. Im actually a Kenyan, we sing this song here in Nairobi but never quite got the meaning. I’m planning to teach the same song to our church choir but not before i know the meaning. So pls assist where posible.
Would you help me to understand how urban Bemba starting saying things like: namitotela instead of namutotela, twamicindika instead of twamucindika? Is there a tribe or language which influenced this?
Hi, I am a student at Iow State University. I’m working on a project where we will be based out of Zambia. What is the phrase for “safe haven” in Bemba?
Thank you!
Safe haven. = Icifulo ca mutende./ Incende ya mutende.
When is Wandi used and when is yandi used?
Hi Corrie,
The answer has to do with classification of nouns (Class 1 to 9).
Exceptions to the rules exist, so the answer is not simple.
Features of a noun such as size, number, volume and location can be conveyed by attaching a prefix to the noun and to its pronoun, adjective, verb, etc.
“…andi” is the possessive pronoun (my, mine).
“W…” is a prefix related to some class 1 nouns.
“Y…” is related to some Class 2, 3 and 5 nouns.
Examples are :
Umwana wandi (My child)
Amenso yandi (My eyes).
Our forthcoming lessons will hopefully cover the topic in some depth.
I hope this helps.
Mr Editor may you please write me the lyrics of the song Agenze, goes like “mama wa bana bange…………….please
That is a Uganda Songo.
“Mama wa bana bange” means, “my kids’ mum” and “aganze” means , “she’s left..”
How do you translate this in Bemba.Ushumfwa patunono napa fingi takomfwe
Hi Tony,
This can be loosely translated to mean that a person who does not comply in little things cannot be expected to comply when it comes to big things.
Uushumfwa = One who does not listen / is deaf
Patunono = Regarding little things
Napa fingi = When it comes to many things
Takomfwe = Will not listen / will not hear
Umuntu uwamisango iibi tekuti apilibuke nangu mwingalanda shani, nga ali nokumfwa kuti aumfwa fye nakwishiwi limo.
Kwalibako na bantu bamo abatalama nangu bacintomfwa abakuti nangu mwingalanda shani tekuti bomfwe nokwalula imibeele yabo. (An evil and sturbon person cannot change his ways even if you talk the whole day. A few words are enough for a wise person).
can someone translate this for me. i ala lelo nachiba bize uleufwakofye
” ala lelo nachiba bize uleufwakofye” = “I was really busy today, hard as that may be to believe.”
I wish you all the very best. = Ndekulombelako ukuti fikuwamine. (singular).
Ndemilombelako ukuti fimiwamine. (plural).
Hi. Can anyone please help me translate to Bemba,
“I love and miss you so much. I know it took me forever to realise how much I do but, I really do. And I hope and pray we fix this soon.”
Help translate this song of praise to bemba which i want the local people to appreciate.
Music: Lobe den Herren Ander Theil des Erneuerten Gesangbuch, second edition (Bremen, Germany: 1665); harmony by William S. Bennett, 1864 (♫ ).
William Sterndale Bennett (1816-1875)
Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the king of creation!
O my soul, praise Him, for He is thy health and salvation!
All ye who hear, now to His temple draw near;
Praise Him in glad adoration.
Praise to the Lord, who over all things so wondrously reigneth,
Shelters thee under His wings, yea, so gently sustaineth!
Hast thou not seen how thy desires ever have been
Granted in what He ordaineth?
Praise to the Lord, who hath fearfully, wondrously, made thee;
Health hath vouchsafed and, when heedlessly falling, hath stayed thee.
What need or grief ever hath failed of relief?
Wings of His mercy did shade thee.
Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend thee;
Surely His goodness and mercy here daily attend thee.
Ponder anew what the Almighty can do,
If with His love He befriend thee.
Praise to the Lord, who, when tempests their warfare are waging,
Who, when the elements madly around thee are raging,
Biddeth them cease, turneth their fury to peace,
Whirlwinds and waters assuaging.
Praise to the Lord, who, when darkness of sin is abounding,
Who, when the godless do triumph, all virtue confounding,
Sheddeth His light, chaseth the horrors of night,
Saints with His mercy surrounding.
Praise to the Lord, O let all that is in me adore Him!
All that hath life and breath, come now with praises before Him.
Let the Amen sound from His people again,
Gladly for aye we adore Him.
Would you please translate Jesus Loves Me into the Zambian language. I will be using it for a children’s mission presentation. Thank you!
Hi Donna,
“Jesus loves me ” = ” Yesu alintemwa. “
Thank you kitweonline for all the assistance in translations. Could you please assist with a couple more prayers that I am trying to translate:
Dear God of mercy and comfort,
You are our help in time of need
We humbly request you to behold, visit, and
relieve your sick servant _____
for whom I pray.
Look upon this person with the eyes of mercy;
Comfort them with a sense of your goodness;
Preserve them from the temptations;
and give them patience under affliction.
In your time, restore them to health,
and enable them to lead the rest of their life
in praise and glory of you;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Dear God,
the strength of the weak
and the comfort of sufferers:
Mercifully accept our prayers,
and grant to your servant ______
the help of your power,
that their sickness may be turned into
health, and our sorrow into joy;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
limo limo
Hi Jay,
Limo limo = Sometimes
how do we call to mary in Bemba?
Hello Likando, where a someone is doing the marrying, to marry = “ukupa”). Where a someone is getting married = “ukupwa”. (The second “u” is a long sound in both cases).
Send like all of this am interested and I wanna learn more.
Akankulila in English
What’s does “naiwe Kali lowesha” in English?
I missed a lot zambia
Hi Shyton,
Zambia does that to you. It has an infectious vibrancy.
Hi I would greatly greatly appreciate if you could translate these sentences and words for me please it’s really urgent !!!!
inshi nalee uwafiko
Kuwait ku ku papatila sana
moba yapa monday ni so che
Pelts a mwana
Chapwa lelo eilko!
Walushi inchito
Walichinja
Kale bad!! apa ma full swing chabe!!
Junta ati shani
Ninshi kapuba or Kapaba
Yama setting iyo
Kabili
Ma
Does anyone please know any old Bemba.A man we knew was called Time for short.We loved him very much,but nobody could say his full name.I was only 3,but he told me in English.I am 53 now,but I remember.In English his name is “They do not call my name,and they cannot say my name,but they will call my name.” Thanks if you can.
Hi can anyone translate ‘Zambia Bola’ by General Ozzy, Kabova & Ben Blazer, into english please? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnVbLIMQu74
I would really love to know Bemba
Mwabopeni
Can someone please translate “ abasuma tabakokola pa chalo into english or any 72 tribes translates
How do you say Ukufubila ubwali in English and wapya when playing a game
Hi Litrally.
“Wapya” = You are toast! / You’ve been had (You have lost).
As for “Ukufubila ubwali”, I would just say “Preparing nshima” because I’m not aware of a more specific way of expressing it.
Dear JS,
There are a couple of old Zamrock songs that I like but I can’t find any translations for them. I’m not sure if they’re Bemba or possibly Nyanja but I thought you might be able to help. The first song is “Dzikolino Ni Zambia” by Keith Mlevhu and the second one is “Kumanda Kwa Bambo Wanga” by Ngozi Family. Please let me know if you can translate what these titles mean. Thank you!!
do you translate books from English to Bemba
Hi Shadreck. KitweOnline will translate simple words and phrases. For more substantial projects like books contact Joseph Bwembya: http://www.zamtransinternational.weebly.com
Hello Mr Sinkala, get in touch with me on 0761852658 translations of books
Hi,
I have questions about two Zamrock songs, firstly “Dzikolino Ni Zambia” by Keith Mlevhu. He is from Chingola, Zambia so I assumed the language would be Bemba although it might be Nyanja. Can you translate the song title?
Secondly can you tell me what “Kumanda Kwa Bambo Wanga” by Ngozi Family is about?
Thank you!!!
Does anyone know how to say “Spirit” in Bemba ?
Umupsashi = pronunciation (ooh moo pah she)
Thank you 🙏
Can someone please translate “Daliso’s dad” for me
“Daliso’s dad” = “Bashi Daliso.” Short for “Bawishi bakwa Daliso”
I want to speak Bemba properly
Does anybody know the Bemba exclamation like “Thank God”, “Wow”?
Thank God = Ndetasha Lesa.
Wow = Eya.
The pronunciation is phonetic.
Dear sir,
Reff: Translation
I write this letter in line of translation.
I’m a translator in this language’s, Bemba, Lamba. am here to ask if You have part time
job in translation.
Cousin?
What is kalima masaka in English
How do you say “Nangu tafibulwa ukukwesana, tekweba filafika mukuchenana” in English
Very impressive
What is “umwepu ‘in English?
Umwepu = Scrubbing sponge (traditionally made from Luffa, a plant from the cucumber family)