At Kitwe Online, we are always looking for creative ways to help our students connect with the Bemba language. Music is one of the most powerful tools for language learning—it sticks in your memory, teaches natural pronunciation, and reveals the heart of a culture.
Today, we are excited to share a beautiful new resource: “Tukakumana” (We Will Meet) , a Bemba love song presented as a lyric video with both Bemba and English translations.
🎵 About the Song
“Tukakumana” tells the story of a man who dreams of the woman he is destined to marry. Though they have not yet met—and do not even know each other’s names—he already loves her in his heart. Each morning he greets her. Each night he dreams of their future together: the chmarriage (ichupo) – the wedding (ubwinga), their home (ng’anda), and their children (abana).
It is a song about:
- Faith in what is not yet seen
- Patience as love waits for its time
- Destiny that brings two people together
The lyrics use simple, everyday Bemba phrases mixed with poetic expressions of longing—perfect for language learners at an intermediate level.
📚 Why This Video Helps You Learn Bemba
This video was created specifically with Bemba language students in mind. Here is why it works:
| Feature | Benefit for Learners |
|---|---|
| Side-by-side Bemba and English lyrics | Instantly check your comprehension |
| Slow, clear vocal delivery | Hear correct pronunciation and tone |
| Romantic theme | Learn vocabulary for emotions and relationships |
| Repeated chorus phrases | Reinforce key sentence structures |
| Cultural context (weddings, greetings) | Understand how language is used in real life |
🔑 Key Vocabulary from the Song
Here are some important Bemba words and phrases you will encounter in “Tukakumana”:
| Bemba | English |
|---|---|
| Muno chalo | In this world |
| Umukashana | A girl / young woman |
| Ishina | Name |
| Mumutima wandi | In my heart |
| Nalimutemwa / Nalikutemwa | I love her / I love you |
| Tukakumana | We will meet |
| Bushiku bumo | One day / someday |
| Mu menso | In the eyes |
| Ukusekelana | To smile at each other |
| Mwashibukeni | Good morning |
| Muli shani? | How are you? |
| Nalikupokelela kale | I have already received you |
| Ubwinga | Wedding ceremony |
| Ichupo | Marriage |
| Ng’anda | Home / house |
| Abana | Children |
| Tukekale pamo | We will live together |
| Chikawaama | It will be beautiful |
🗣️ Language Note: Terms of Endearment
You will notice the phrase “We mayo iwe!” in the chorus. This is a beautiful Bemba expression of endearment.
- Mayo literally means “mother,” but in this context it is used like “my love” or “my darling.”
- We is a vocative particle used when addressing someone directly.
- Iwe means “you.”
Together, “We mayo iwe!” conveys deep affection—something like “Oh, my beloved!” It is a common expression in Bemba love songs and poetry.
🎧 Listen and Practice
We encourage you to:
- Watch the video once just to enjoy the music.
- Watch again while reading the Bemba lyrics only.
- Watch a third time following along with the English translation.
- Sing along! Music is one of the best ways to build pronunciation confidence.
💬 Share Your Thoughts
Did this song help you learn new Bemba phrases? Are there other types of content you would like to see for your language journey?
Leave a comment below. Twalimutemwa! (We love you!)
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more Bemba language videos, including songs, stories, grammar lessons. Roots & Rhythm – Zed Music Lab
