course work in swahili

13 Best And Worst Online Swahili Courses For 2024

• Read time 12 mins

Looking for the best online Swahili course to learn the language?

Swahili is rising in popularity, as more and more course options are being released.

In addition to tourism and foreign language careers , the benefits of speaking Swahili cannot be overstated.

Today I’ll give you my rundown of the best (and worst) online Swahili courses.

Below you’ll find pros and cons for each Swahili course, pricing and a summary. Where applicable, I’ll link to a review of the course.

Table Of Contents

• SwahiliPod101
• Transparent Language
• Mango Languages
• Living Language
• FSI Swahili

IMPORTANT : Some of the items listed below are probably only loosely defined as “courses” for Swahili. The reason I’ve included them is that they’re popular enough Swahili tools and therefore should be included.

DISCLAIMER : The comments below are personal opinions and some affiliate links are used.

The best Swahili courses online (most popular Swahili resources)

1. swahilipod101.

Cost: Starts as low as $4 a month.

Summary: SwahiliPod101 is a brilliant online resource for learning Swahili (especially listening comprehension). If you’re into podcast learning especially, this might be the course for you.

SwahiliPod101 uses audio lessons similar to podcasts. Lessons are suitable for beginners through more advanced levels. The instruction not only includes listening skills but also incorporates essential vocabulary and grammar with loads of other useful features.

What I like:

• Large and always expanding variety of Swahili lesson material
• Clean lesson interface and downloadable content

What I don’t like:

• Content choices are sparse beyond the beginner level
• Too much English banter
• While the lesson interface is nice, the rest of the site is overwhelming and confusing to navigate

UNIQUE OFFER : Use the code MEZZOGUILD to save 25% on any of their Swahili course options.

2. Pimsleur Swahili

Cost: $14.95 a month subscription (or $119.95 per level)

Summary: Pimsleur’s a household name for learning Swahili using spaced repetition recall. The lessons focus on practical vocabulary and expressions one might need in various scenarios. This includes greetings, common phrases, and vocabulary you might need when talking to native speakers.

In terms of just how much you get out of it, I’d say Pimsleur is a good entry point for Swahili but it will only familiarize you with the basics. Treat its Swahili course as a foundational course and then move on to something more comprehensive.

Pimsleur does not offer any video or written content. It’s audio only.

Read this Pimsleur review .

• Pimsleur was based on solid research in second language acquisition.
• Extremely effective method despite its age.
• Heavy repetition of Swahili language samples.
• Outdated scenario examples.
• Too much English.

Summary: Memrise moved its free “community” courses to a site called Memrise a while back, while it continues to run a premium subscription on the original Memrise site.

From what I see, Memrise is identical to what Memrise use to offer.

Memrise are 100% free community-added courses (Swahili and others) in the form of a gamified flashcard deck. You select a language or dialect, then go through a flashcard game of “watering plants”. It’s highly addictive and actually quite effective.

Some courses are excellent but not all courses are good. Look for ones that include audio and ones that teach phrases rather than single words.

See my video on downloading Memrise to Anki.

• It’s an effective memorization tool for phrases and words.
• The addictive nature of the game gets you coming back often to continue learning.
• It’s all free.
• There are loads of community-driven courses to choose from.
• As it’s community-driven, you can’t always guarantee quality.

Cost: Prices vary widely

Summary: italki connects learners with tutors, teachers and conversation partners. As with similar services, it doesn’t a curriculum or content to instructors - just facilitates.

The good thing about italki is their vetted onboarding process for teachers which ensures quality. italki has earned its amazing reputation.

Teachers succeed on italki through client feedback, meaning subpar teachers simply will not cut it on the platform.

• Facilitates great connections with expert teachers.
• No set curriculum means you could be paired with an inexperienced new teacher not yet weeded out by italki’s review system.

5. Transparent Language

Cost: Pricing varies

Summary: Transparent is one of the most surprising online Swahili courses I’ve tried.

The system and interface are antiquated and slow which is a real drawback, but if you can look past it, Transparent Language provides a real depth of Swahili course content.

The voice recognition comparison is non-existent in Transparent Language. It relies on recording on your voice and showing you your sound wave to compare with the native speaker’s sound wave.

No inbuilt system to automatically compare sounds.

The Transparent Language course has a “Produce it. Say it.” section that literally asks you “Were you right?”.

In other words, no way to automatically detect whether you were correct or not - it relies on your own determination. This is incredibly outdated.

Overall, if you can look past the outdated design and deficient voice recording aspect, Transparent Language Swahili is an outstanding course option.

• Swahili dialogue is 100% natural speed
• Extensive coverage and depth of content
• Outdated and slow interface that’s a pain to navigate
• Pronunciation section has no inbuilt voice recognition to compare to native dialogue

Cost: $4.99 monthly per language, $9.99 for all 140 languages, $99.99 for a lifetime subscription

Summary: uTalk is essentially a fancy flashcard app, an alternative to Memrise and a great way to learn words and phrases in hundreds of different languages.

There are thousands of potential language pair combinations and tons of native speaker audio recordings with picture associations.

• Authentic native speaker audio
• Hundreds of available languages
• Thousands of potential language combinations
• Easily affordable
• Games are mediocre
• Broad approach that isn’t tailored for specific languages

7. Mango Languages

Cost: $7.99 a month

Summary: Mango Languages has implemented what I believe to be one of the best ‘chunking’ approaches in its course style I’ve ever seen (very close to my own successful method). It does this by avoiding grammar Swahili explanations and instead highlighting lexical chunks in colors to help you learn language patterns.

One of the best features I’ve seen in a language product. Period.

The only problem with Mango is that it’s quite lightweight on its course depth. If they developed an advanced course for Swahili, I’d be a raging fan.

• Beautifully designed Swahili course
• Focuses on lexical chunks (color coded) rather than rules which is how I prefer to learn
• Minimal grammar focus
• Lack of content depth for higher-level learners

8. Glossika Swahili

Cost: $30 a month.

Summary: I’m a huge fan of the Glossika series.

Glossika is one of the most unique language products available and, in my opinion, one of the very few that uses a natural, research-grounded method. In fact, the Glossika method aligns very closely with how I personally learned Swahili and I’ve seen tremendous success doing it.

Glossika focuses on high repetition of lexical chunks - in other words, listening over and over to a sequence of sentences at natural speed and repeating them.

It is hands down the most effective trainer for Swahili listening comprehension and requires little else but frequent, daily listening/repeating to audio.

See this massive Glossika review and interview I put together.

• One of the most truly unique and effective methods available, in my opinion.
• I personally had tremendous success using Glossika for Swahili (and Russian).
• Focuses on heavy repetition of natural language chunks.
• Difficult concept to grasp for new learners of Swahili.
• Natural approach requiring heavy repetition may feel tedious to some people.
• Slightly higher priced monthly subscription.

9. Assimil (Le swahili)

Summary: The Assimil method is old and outdated, and its ‘two wave’ approach has little value in light of current Second Language Acquisition trends (although its focus on patterns rather than grammar drills is ahead of its time). The Assimil dialogues are extremely useful, however.

• High quality dialogues
• Perfectly arranged audio library
• Very comprehensive
• Only available in French
• Translation-based
• Doesn’t appear to be backed by research or case studies
• Unusual and bizarre situational topics

10. Duolingo Swahili

Cost: Free.

Summary: Duolingo has become a staple for many language learners - a completely free household name to rival established companies like Babbel and Rosetta Stone.

I’ve personally have never liked Duolingo and I think it’s an overrated, infantile game that offers little value other than being an addictive distraction and procrastination from real learning. People go through entire courses on the Duolingo platform and come away with little more than a cartoon trophy.

Their Swahili course might serve you well to get you acquainted but there are better ways to spend your study time in my opinion.

Check out my comparison of Duolingo and Babbel .

• Free to use.
• Fun downtime activity in between real study periods.
• Appealing to young people and those experimenting with Swahili before committing to a paid resource.
• Tedious, repetitive point and click on easily predictable answers.
• Addictive gamification that feels productive but is, in fact, time-wasting.

11. Mondly Swahili

Cost: Starts at $9.99/month.

Summary: Mondly offers courses for loads of different languages including Swahili and is similar in style to Duolingo and Babbel. There are even hints of Rosetta Stone in its delivery.

It’s a beautifully-designed web app and a pleasure to navigate the Swahili course content.

Some of the language courses aren’t that great (e.g. Arabic) but Swahili and others are done fairly well.

• Beautifully designed app and web interface makes it a pleasure to use
• Clear and easy progression through the Swahili lessons
• Inexpensive
• Linear learning path
• Fairly repetitive and monotonous

See this Mondly review to learn more.

12. Living Language Swahili

Cost: Starts from $25

Summary: I was never a fan of Living Language when I reviewed it several years ago. I’m including it on this list because it is one of the big names and most popular courses for Swahili (plus I get asked about it from time to time).

I found Living Language to be bland, incorrectly levelled and just a very uninspiring grammar-heavy course.

• Very thorough in its grammar explanations
• Incorrect levelling - especially for higher levels
• Trashing of competitors in its marketing is extremely off-putting

13. FSI Swahili

Summary: FSI (Foreign Service Institute) is a government entity that trains diplomats and government officials in foreign languages. It offers Swahili along with many other languages online for free (including audio recordings).

The problem with the FSI material is that it’s literally been around for almost a century.

It’s ancient.

So although you can download their comprehensive Swahili course for free with audio, be aware that the material is literally photocopied booklets that were typed up on typewriters making it almost illegible.

If you’re patient, there’s some good value in the FSI courses but it’s so dated that I personally wouldn’t bother.

• Being a US government entity that trains diplomats, FSI naturally has incredible Swahili course depth.
• Free and easy to download lesson + audio on many sites (the link below is the easiest to access).
• Archaic course.
• PDF material is still just a photocopy of the original, typewritten paper so it’s dreadful to read.

Summary: Best online Swahili courses

This pretty much sums up every online Swahili course option currently available (if I missed one, let me know!).

In addition to a Swahili course, make sure you’re getting regular Swahili practice with native speakers.

For that, italki is the easiest way ( outside of Africa ) to find really inexpensive practice partners and tutors.

Just remember that even if you have all the courses on this list, you’ll still fail at learning Swahili without the right motivation, and even a poor Swahili course can be effective in the hands of someone with the right amount of determination to succeed.

For tips on how to learn Swahili and overcoming various language learning struggles, subscribe below by ‘Joining the Guild’ (select Swahili as your target language).

Know of a Swahili course that I didn’t mention?

Share it below in the comment section.

🎓 Cite article

Learning Swahili ?

Let me help you learn Swahili JOIN THE GUILD:

Donovan Nagel - B. Th, MA AppLing

I started with Language Transfer. It’s a great foundation, and totally free. You’ll understand the structure of the language in an interesting way by the time you’re done. Tons more work to do at that point, of course.

REPLY TO MICHAEL

Memrise no longer offers swahili

REPLY TO JEN

Rebekah Joy Kutz

Thank you so much for this list! I have never seen any information like this, and it is very needed!!! I will definitely share it with my students. I created my own course using Quizlet and I have Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Expert and Congo courses. Each course contains 60 sets of roughly 20 terms in each set. Pictures and sound are provided for most terms. You are welcome to try it out. It’s called Darasa la Kiswahili. I have been teaching Swahili to foreigners for over 12 years, so I have tried to make something that works for most types of students.

REPLY TO REBEKAH JOY KUTZ

• Affiliate Disclaimer
• Privacy Policy
• About The Mezzofanti Guild
• About Donovan Nagel
• Essential Language Tools
• Language Calculator

SOCIAL MEDIA

Current mission.

Let Me Help You Learn A Language

• Get my exclusive language learning content delivered straight to your inbox.
• Learn about the best language resources that I've personally test-driven.
• Get insider tips for learning languages.

Don’t fill this out if you're human:

No spam. Ever.

BloomTech’s Downfall: A Long Time Coming

Coursera’s 2023 Annual Report: Big 5 Domination, Layoffs, Lawsuit, and Patents

Coursera sees headcount decrease and faces lawsuit in 2023, invests in proprietary content while relying on Big 5 partners.

• 10 Best Deep Learning Courses for 2024
• 7 Best Latin Courses for Beginners in 2024
• 7 Best Elm Courses for 2024
• 9 Best ChatGPT & Prompt Engineering Courses for 2024
• [2024] 1300+ Free SWAYAM + NPTEL Courses

600 Free Google Certifications

Most common

Popular subjects.

Web Development

Microsoft Excel

Popular courses

Social Psychology

Introduction to Programming with MATLAB

Python and Statistics for Financial Analysis

Organize and share your learning with Class Central Lists.

View our Lists Showcase

Swahili Courses and Certifications

Learn Swahili, earn certificates with free online courses from YouTube and other top learning platforms around the world. Read reviews to decide if a class is right for you.

• 2 - 5 hours (1)
• 10+ hours (2)
• English (3)

Swahili Class

SWAHILI ALPHABET and PRONUNCIATION. Swahili Favourite Phrases. The most useful swahili phrases. 2020 CLEAN WITH ME MARATHON | EXTREME SPEED CLEANING MOTIVATION | HOMEMAKING INSPIRATION.

• Free Online Course

Swahili Words for Every Day

Learn the Top 10 Ways to Save the Planet in Swahili. Learn the Top 1000 Most Useful Phrases in Swahsi. Top 25 Swahil Verbs. Top 10 Hardest Words to Pronounce. 10 Things to Do in the Summer in Kenya. Top 5 Ways to Speak More Swahli.

• 3 hours 30 minutes

Swahili Listening Practice

Swahili Listening Practice: Listening to a Swahili Forecast. Looking At Apartments in Kenya. Reserving Tickets to a Play in Swahile. Preparing For a Swahsili Business Meeting. Choosing a Pair of Glasses in Kenya and Buying Shirts in a Sale.

Never Stop Learning.

Get personalized course recommendations, track subjects and courses with reminders, and more.

We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners who may combine it with other information that you’ve provided to them or that they’ve collected from your use of their services.

Free Swahili Lessons Online | FSI

At Live Lingua we believe that everybody should be able to learn another language. This is why we have made available these free Foreign Service Institute resources for you to use. Read the Swahili ebooks online, listen to the Swahili audios and practice your Swahili pronunciation with our online recorder or download the files to use whenever you want. Choose the Swahili course you want below:

Select The Free Swahili Lesson You Want To Use:

Unconventional language hacking tips from Benny the Irish polyglot; travelling the world to learn languages to fluency and beyond!

Looking for something? Use the search field below.

Home » Articles » How to Learn Swahili: An In-Depth Guide (With Resources!)

Full disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. ?

written by Maria Price

Language: Swahili

Reading time: 22 minutes

Published: Jun 13, 2022

Updated: Aug 15, 2022

How to Learn Swahili: An In-Depth Guide (With Resources!)

I’d like to show you how to learn Swahili.

Are you familiar with some Swahili words or phrases like  Jambo  and  Hakuna Matata ? Now, learn how Kenyans ACTUALLY speak!

While living in Kenya for the past year and a half, I’ve been studying the Swahili language (known as “Kiswahili” to its speakers) and have found it to be an excellent language for me to learn as an English speaker.

And I think you might want to consider giving this language a shot yourself. Here’s why you might like to learn Swahili:

Table of contents

Reason 1: a diverse history, reason 2: it’s the most widely-spoken language across africa, reason 3: you’ll expand your ideas of how language works, reason 4: it’s a shared african language, without being colonial, reason 5: you’ll get unique experiences and extra insights into kenyan culture, reason 6: kenyans are very encouraging when you’re learning swahili, reason 7: swahili is easy, “but why learn swahili don’t they speak english in kenya”, the difficulty of learning swahili: why swahili is an easy language to learn, swahili has no gendered nouns or articles, swahili verb conjugations are really simple, there are plenty of swahili words you already know, swahili pronunciation is easy, asking questions in swahili that’s easy too, 1. listen to how native swahili speakers speak english, 2. be aware of the different regions in kenya, 3. visit remote areas in kenya where few people speak english, 4 free resources for learning swahili, 2 paid resources for learning swahili, getting started with learning the swahili language, swahili pronunciation guide, formal greetings in swahili, informal greetings in swahili, basic swahili vocabulary, 7 good reasons to learn swahili – east africa’s  lingua franca.

Swahili is a Bantu (African origin) language with a large Arabic influence. It also includes some loan words from languages such as English, German, and Portuguese.

Swahili originated on the East African coast due to a rich and diverse history of trading and cultural exchange between Arabic nations, coastal Africans, and Europeans.

Swahili is spoken by an estimated  90 million people  in Africa alone. It is the most widely-spoken African language.

Swahili is the national language of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is used as the “lingua franca” throughout East and Southeast Africa.

In other words, it’s the common language that two people will use to communicate if they don’t share the same native language.

If you’re used to Eurocentric languages, these rules of the Swahili language might surprise you.

In Swahili, plurals are formed by changing the  beginning  of a word, rather than the ending. For example, a singular teacher is  mwalimu  and multiple teachers are  walimu.  One shoe is  kiatu , but many shoes are  viatu .

Another different concept is that of telling time.

In Swahili language and culture, the day begins at 7:00 a.m., which is usually around the time of sunrise. Therefore, 7:00 a.m. is translated to mean “hour one” or  saa moja  ( moja  is the word for “one”). 8:00 a.m. is “hour two” or  saa mbili , and so on.

This reflects a different way of looking at time than in the Western world, where we mark midnight as the beginning of the new day, or Judaic culture, where the day begins at sunset.

Many other differences exist that will help to expand your perspective of how language functions, and how this can be reflected in the culture.

Where is Swahili spoken? Across East Africa. And that’s something else about Swahili that I find interesting.

If you look at nations such as Nigeria or Ghana, other former British colonies, those nations don’t have a shared language that is an African language. If people from these countries are from different tribes and grew up speaking different native languages, they would need to use English or pidgin as a common second language.

Meanwhile, in Kenya and throughout East Africa, people can communicate using a shared African language, which has much in common with their own native languages. They don’t have to rely on a colonial language to be understood throughout their own country.

As  Fluent in 3 Months  founder Benny Lewis has  mentioned many times , speaking the local language gives you special access to certain aspects of the culture.

Kenya is certainly not the only country where you can get a “local price” on items at markets rather than paying the foreigner’s price, or “Mzungu tax.”

One highlight of my time in Kenya was when I was able to spend one week in a rural women’s village in the county of Samburu. I was able to live with the women and their children and become fully immersed in their lifestyle, a truly special experience.

Because the village was rather isolated from any big cities or cosmopolitan centers, English was very rarely spoken. Most of the villagers spoke Kisamburu, their mother tongue, but quite a few knew Swahili as well.

Because of my proficiency in basic Swahili, I was able to communicate with them, and we formed quite strong bonds. The language barrier is so real when it comes to forging friendships or even just being understood.

I was able to have such a great experience in this village because of my ability to communicate with the women in our shared second language, Swahili.

A popular reason language learners give for not speaking their target language enough is that they feel self-conscious when they try, or they are worried about embarrassing themselves in front of native speakers.

This could not be further from the attitude of Kenyans towards “Mzungus” (white foreigners) who make attempts to speak Swahili.

When I was practicing my Swahili during my travels in Kenya, I was often met by pleasantly surprised looks from the locals. They would say things like “ si kawaida! ” (it’s not usual) when they heard me speaking Swahili.

Kenyans in general are really into Western/American culture, and they are very welcoming towards visitors from the US and Europe. Most Kenyans you meet will love to hear you speaking Swahili!

I even got some compliments on my accent and grammar, even though my Swahili is far from perfect.

Here are a few basic words and phrases you can learn to start interacting in Swahili as soon as possible. I’ll list more at the end of the article.

By studying Swahili, I’ve learned for myself that it can be a relatively easy language to learn.

In a moment, I’ll show you the hacks I’ve discovered that make Swahili an easier language than you’d think.

First, an objection I’ve sometimes heard to learning Swahili:

Yes, English is the official language of Kenya (Swahili is the  national  language). Many English-speaking tourists or expats living in Kenya get by relying only on English.

However, this doesn’t mean it is spoken by 100% of Kenyans – far from it.

While many Kenyans speak three or more languages fluently (Swahili, English, and their native language or “mother tongue”), the level of English proficiency usually highly correlates with how much education they’ve received.

In Kenya, you’ll come into contact with many highly-educated Kenyans whose English is excellent, especially in the tourism industry. But there are also many Kenyans, especially in rural areas, who speak very little English.

Furthermore, English-speaking Kenyans usually learn Swahili before they learn English, and therefore feel more comfortable with Swahili.

Is Swahili hard to learn? It’s easier than you might think.

Swahili is usually ranked in  Category 2 or 3  by various language learning programs when it comes to its difficulty for English speakers.

However, I find it to be quite an easy language to grasp for those who have grown up speaking English, or had exposure to Eurocentric or Romance languages (particularly Spanish or Italian).

Here are a few reasons why you’ll find Swahili not only interesting and practical to learn, but also a fun and easy language to pick up:

For many English speakers, the “gender” of nouns can be one of the most frustrating parts of learning a language.

Author and humorist David Sedaris expressed his frustrations with trying to remember what gender each noun has while learning French in his essay  Me Talk Pretty One Day :

“I spent months searching for some secret code before I realized that common sense has nothing to do with it. Hysteria, psychosis, torture, depression: I was told that if something is unpleasant it’s probably feminine. This encouraged me, but the theory was blown by such masculine nouns as murder, toothache, and rollerblade. I have no problem learning the words themselves, it’s the sexes that trip me up and refuse to stick.”

In Swahili, you won’t need to worry about whether nouns are masculine or feminine. In fact, you won’t have to worry about articles at all! Swahili has neither definite (the) nor indefinite (a, an) articles.

For example, to say “I need a chair,” You would say  Ninahitaji kiti .

The first part of the sentence,  Ninahitaji  means “I need,” and the second part,  kiti , means “chair.” This sentence can either mean “I need a chair” or “I need the chair.” The exact meaning is easily implied by the context of your sentence.

You also won’t need to worry about gendered pronouns. The pronoun for “he” and “she” is one and the same. So the sentence  Yeye ni mwalimu  is used to say both “He is a teacher” and “She is a teacher.”

The same is true for  Anacheza : “He is playing” or “She is playing.” Again, the meaning is worked out from the context.

In a world that increasingly recognizes the non-binary aspect of gender, one could argue that Swahili is by default a very gender-inclusive language.

Another easy aspect of Swahili is that it has no formal “you” pronoun, as languages like Spanish and French do.

As an English speaker, the idea of a formal “you” was something I frequently found puzzling. While working for an Ecuadorian-based travel company, I’d often wonder if I should address my coworkers as  tú  or  usted .

And then, did I get the verb conjugations correct to go along with either the formal or informal pronouns?

I’m sure this comes quite naturally to Spanish speakers, but for someone who isn’t used to it, this formal/informal pronoun business often gave me a headache. I generally didn’t want to offend anyone, so I usually went with the formal “you” by default.

In Swahili, rather than memorizing conjugations and endings for the numerous verbs you will learn, you really just need to learn the infinitive and root form of each verb.

For example, let’s take the infinitive verb  kutembea , which means “to walk.” Each verb’s infinitive form includes the  ku-  prefix. To just use the root of the verb, we say  tembea , meaning “walk.”

Some examples:

• Ninatembea  – “I am walking”
• Nilitembea  – “I walked”
• Nimetembea  – “I have walked” (recently)
• Nitatembea  – “I will walk”

Here, the verb root and the subject pronoun ( ni  – “I”) stay the same, and we just change the tense marker:  na ,  li ,  me , and  ta .

As Benny has mentioned, when starting a language, you’re  rarely starting completely from scratch .

Even if you think you’re totally clueless when it comes to an African language, I can bet you’re familiar with more words in Swahili than you think.

The first example that comes to mind is  safari , a word of Arabic origin that is the Swahili word for “journey.” Chances are, you’re also used to hearing this word in English in the context of a trip, usually to see animals, often in Sub-Saharan Africa. Any user of Apple products is also no doubt familiar with the Safari web browser.

In Kenya, you might hear the phrase  Safari njema  which means “Have a good trip!” This can also help you remember the Swahili word  safiri , the verb for “travel.”

Jenga  is another word known by many people in the US as a block building game, but its name actually comes directly from the Kenyan verb “build.” For example,  Anajenga  means “he is building”.

Additionally, if you’re at all familiar with the Disney movie  The Lion King , you know some other Swahili words as well:

• simba  – “lion”
• rafiki  – “friend”
• Asante sana  – “Thank you very much.” This can be heard in  the song that Rafiki the baboon sings . The whole song goes “ Asante sana, squash banana, wewe nugu, mimi hapana ” which is a bit of a nonsense song that translates to “Thank you very much, squash banana, you are a baboon and I’m not.”
• Hakuna matata  – “no problem/no worries.” Before The Lion King,  hakuna matata  was used in a well-known Kenyan song  “Jambo Bwana” by Them Mushrooms . You’ll find that nowadays, Kenyans really only say the phrase  hakuna matata  to tourists. More commonly, you might hear  haina shida  which means essentially the same thing: “No problem!”
• Jambo  – used as a greeting, again only for tourists.  Jambo  literally translates to “matter/issue/thing.” If a Kenyan greets you with  Jambo , most likely it means they are trying to be friendly but assume you don’t know any Swahili. If you want to continue the conversation in Swahili, you can respond  Sijambo , and then maybe follow with another Swahili greeting like  Habari yako?

Swahili also uses cognates and loan words from other languages:

• Portuguese –  familia  (“family”),  meza  (“table”),  bandera  (“flag”)
• German –  shule  (“school”)
• English –  musiki  (“music”),  Afrika  (“Africa”),  basi  (“bus”),  boti  (“boat”),  benki  (“bank”),  hoteli  (“hotel”),  kompyuta  (“computer”),  teksi  (“taxi”),  blanketi  (“blanket”),  posta  (“post office”),  shati  (“shirt”),  suti  (“suit”),  soksi  (“socks”),  tai  (“tie”),  picha  (“picture”),  chai  (“tea” or “chai”)

Hint: try sounding them out phonetically, remembering that Kenyans speak English with a British accent – Rs following vowels are generally dropped. You can consult the Pronunciation Guide at the end of this article for help as well.

There are only five basic vowel sounds in Kiswahili, and they are similar to the Spanish and Italian vowels.

Most of the consonants in Swahili can be found in English, too. Plus, written Swahili is phonetic, meaning you can pronounce nearly any written word you see, once you learn a few pronunciation rules.

See the  Swahili Pronunciation Guide  I’ve provided at the end of this article for all the details on Swahili pronunciation.

With Swahili, you don’t need to learn any additional “question” words, such as  est-ce que  in French. You don’t need to change around the order of words either, like when we ask a question in English.

Instead, simply change your inflection to move upwards at the end of the phrase to indicate a question. If you find this odd, consider the English phrase “He is visiting soon” and think of how you can turn it into a question just by changing your inflection.

Note: In formal Swahili, you can preface a question with the word  Je  (For example:  Je, unajua Kiingereza?  – “Do you know English?”), but in casual conversation, it is not necessary. You will be understood if you simply pay attention to your inflection.

Learn Swhaili Through Immersion in Kenya: My 3 Top Tips

I’ve learned Swahili by living in Kenya, so I’d like to share some insider tips on learning Swahili, in case you’d like to do something similar.

(In the next section, I’ll share some of my favourite Swahili courses and resources that you can use if you’re planning to learn Swahili at home.)

Since so many English-speaking Kenyans often learn Swahili first, the way they speak English is usually based on direct translations of Swahili. The way they speak English can help you with your understanding of Swahili grammar.

One example that comes to mind is whenever I hear someone say in English “You’re being called.” This is almost always said in the passive form, rather than the more active “Someone is calling you.”

This comes from a translation of the Swahili phrase  Unaitwa , which naturally is a passive construction.

Another example is how Kenyans will ask “Are you taking coffee?” or “Are you taking tea?” rather than what we might say in the US, “Are you having/drinking coffee?”

This is also a direct translation from Swahili. The verb “take” is  chukua , so you might say,  Una chukua  kahawa?

For those who are visiting Kenya hoping to practice Swahili, you will get a different experience depending on which part of Kenya you visit.

Those at the Kenyan coast will speak more proper or “clean” Swahili ( Swahili sanifu ) than those in Nairobi, as this area is where the language originated.

As an English speaker, I’ve found the Swahili spoken here to be very easy for me to understand, and likewise, the Kenyans at the coast seem to have an easier time understanding me.

Meanwhile, Kenya’s capital city Nairobi is known for “shang.” It’s a kind of Kenyan slang that uses both English and Swahili words and is essentially its own dialect.

Shang is hard to understand if (like me!) you’ve studied Swahili from more academic sources, or have spoken/studied a lot with coastal Kenyans who speak “clean” Swahili.

However, if you’re interested in sounding more hip and less like a square, you might want to add a few shang phrases to your vocabulary.

Kenya is a hugely diverse country, and if you’re visiting, you owe it to yourself to see the rural countryside and learn more about the people and traditions outside of the urban centers.

Since these rural areas are usually far removed from hubs of business, commerce, and globalization, it means that English is likely to be spoken much less frequently in these areas. People may tend to speak mainly in their mother tongue and use Swahili as a second language.

In a situation like this, you’ll be surrounded with new, different sounds from the local tribal languages.

There are 43 different tribes in Kenya, which means 43 different local languages. These include Kikuyu, Kalenjin, Kisamburu, Kimaasai, and many many more. These languages are much less known to the average English speaker than Swahili, and they will probably sound more foreign.

As you hear these local languages and as you are forced to speak in Swahili to be understood, you will start to appreciate any progress (however small) you have made in learning Swahili compared to another language that is totally foreign to you.

In other words, when it’s a choice between Swahili and the local language, Swahili will feel more comfortable to use!

Learn Swahili at Home With These Swahili Courses and Resources

So, now you’re motivated to start learning Swahili on your own, where do you begin?

1. SwahiliPod101

The  Innovative Language podcasts  are a favorite resource of the  Fluent in 3 Months  team.

SwahiliPod101  would be my first recommendation for learning Swahili.

Look for their beginner lessons first – they help you with basic pronunciation and greetings. This is a great way to get a first taste of the language, spoken by native speakers.

This course teaches Kenyan Swahili. Take advantage of the week-long free trial, for great bite-sized listening comprehension videos, and get the most use out of it while you can.

I wish I’d used this more when I was still on my free trial!

2. LanguageTransfer Complete Swahili

LanguageTransfer Complete Swahili  is an audio-based course.

Teacher Mihalis Eleftheriou provides a scaffolded, deconstructed look at the language with actual students for you to learn alongside. A great, easy-to-grasp approach that progresses logically.

The only reason this isn’t listed as number 1 is because Eleftheriou isn’t a native speaker himself.

DuoLingo Swahili

When I first started learning Swahili, the  DuoLingo Swahili  module did not exist.

It’s a great tool, but a few things should be noted.

First of all, this module is for Tanzanian Swahili. It’s essentially the same as Kenyan Swahili, but it helps to be aware of what some regional differences might be.

Namely, Tanzanians are known to speak very proper or formal Swahili, like the kind that is spoken at the Kenyan coast. Meanwhile, Kenyans speak a bit more casually, especially around urban centers like Nairobi.

Additionally, the Swahili DuoLingo module was perhaps taken out of beta a bit too soon. There are still a few mistakes in the more advanced lessons, but it is improving every day.

I highly recommend getting started with the  SwahiliPod101 podcast first.

3. BBC YouTube Channel

The BBC has a Swahili YouTube channel called  Dira la Dunia . This is more advanced, and uses very formal news jargon – not super colloquial.

4. Swahili Fairy Tales

An easier YouTube channel for beginners is  Swahili Fairy Tales , geared towards children, with English subtitles

Preply (our review is here ) of course, remains a fantastic resource.

I’ve been working with a Swahili tutor named Jackie, from Kenya. Due to the strength of the US dollar compared to the Kenyan or Tanzanian currency, you can find a private Swahili tutor for an excellent rate.

I currently pay $5 USD for a 30-minute casual conversation practice lesson, an incredible bargain!

2. Teach Yourself: Complete Swahili by Joan Russell

Teach Yourself: Complete Swahili by Joan Russell  is textbook with accompanying audio. It was a huge help to me as I was starting to learn the language.

Note that this also mainly deals with Tanzanian Swahili, but is easily applied to the Swahili spoken in Kenya.

Here are a few basics and “survival phrases” to get you started with learning Swahili:

There are five basic vowels in Swahili:

• a  – “ah” as in “father”
• e  – “eh” as in “get” (sometimes more of an “ey” sound like “hey”)
• i  – “ee” as in “see”
• o  – “oh” as in “gopher”
• u  – “oo” as in “tooth”

The “y” sound behaves similarly to how it does in English, and blends with other letters, rather than standing on its own as a separate syllable.

There are no diphthongs/blended vowels, so when you see two vowels next to each other, pronounce them both in succession. Examples:

• Kiingereza  – kee-eeng-er-EZ-ah (“English language”)
• Nimesahau  – nee-meh-sah-HA-oo (“I forget/I have forgotten”)

In addition to the vowel sounds, here are some tips with the consonant sounds in Swahili:

• m/n  – When an “m” or “n” precedes a consonant, in most cases the syllable is hummed with a nasal sound.
• Mzungu  – mmZOONG-oo (“white person”)
• ndogo  – nnDOH-go (“small”)
• dh  – “th” as in “this”.
• ng’  – This is perhaps the one sound that can be really foreign to English speakers. Think of the “ng” in “song” and try to imitate that when you see  ng’ .

The stress comes on the penultimate syllable of every word

• kitabu – kee-TAH-boo (“book”)
• twiga – TWEE-gah (“giraffe”)

Swahili Greetings

• Habari?  – “How are you?” (literally “news”)
• Mzuri  – “good/well” (in response to  Habari? )
• Sana  – “a lot/very/very much”
• Hujambo/Hamjambo?  – “How are you?” (singular/plural)
• Sijambo/Hatujambo  – “I’m fine/we’re fine”
• Sasa?  – “What’s up?” (literally “now”)
• Niaje?  – “How are you?”
• Mambo?  – “What’s up?” (literally “things”)
• Vipi?  – “How’s it going?”
• Poa  – “good/cool” (response to  Vipi? )
• Ndiyo  – “Yes”
• Hapana  – “No”
• Asante  – “Thank you”
• Karibu  – “Welcome/You’re welcome” (also: “close” / “near”)
• Mzungu  – “White person” (If you’re white, expect to hear this a lot!)
• Twende  – “Let’s go”
• Maji  – “Water”
• Chakula  – “Food”
• Tafadhali  – “Please”
• Sawa  – “Okay”
• Samahani  – “Excuse me”
• Pole  – “Sorry” (to express sympathy)
• Rafiki  – “Friend”
• Nataka  – “I want…”
• Nataki hii  – “I want this one”
• Nipe…  – “Give me…”
• Ngapi?  – “How much” (e.g. “How much is it?”)
• Ghali sana!  – “Too expensive!”
• Bei nzuri  – “Good price”
• Kidogo  – “A little”
• Unajua Kiingereza?  – “Do you know English?”
• Sijui  – “I don’t know”
• Sielewi  – “I don’t understand”
• Useme polepole  – “Could you speak slowly please”
• Naitwa ** ** – “My name is ** _**”
• Wapi  – “Where?”
• (Choo) iko wapi?  – “Where is the (toilet)?”
• Unatoka wapi?  – “Where do you come from?”
• Natoka Marekani  – “I come from the USA”
• Kwa heri  – “Goodbye”

Original article by Maria Price, updated by the Fluent in 3 Months team.

Maria Price

Orchestra Director, Mount Kenya Academy

Maria is a global educator, musician, and lover of travel who currently teaches orchestra at the primary and secondary school levels in Nyeri, Kenya.

Speaks: English, Swahili

Have a 15-minute conversation in your new language after 90 days

Learn Swahili online with expert tutors

Find the best swahili language tutor for you.

Explore our selection of online Swahili lessons and classes with qualified tutors. From beginners to advanced learners, you can enhance your language skills in a flexible and interactive environment. Start your Swahili learning journey today!

Teacher Lazaro

A passionately dedicated Luo and Swahili community teacher from Kisumu Kenya. When I was in high school and even in college, my major was communication skills. It is a lot of fun. I love Swahili as my national language and Luo as my mother tongue. I am fluent in them. As a community teacher am comfortable with students of all levels. I am dedicated, punctual, patient and polite. I have interacted with learning institutions as an instructor in computer disciplines and as a volunteer community teacher of Swahili and Luo language. I also pastor a church where we majorly communicate in Swahili and Luo. I studied a diploma in Project Planning and Management and Information Technology and gained a lot of skills on matters of both written and oral communication.

138 Lessons

Mwalimu Tina

Kiswahili is my second language– Fulbright Scholar & Linguist w/ 10 years of Teaching Experience. I bring the most unique perspective to Swahili instruction. I have navigated the process of becoming fluent in Swahili at C2 level from the ground up. I understand your challenges and have realized the most effective strategies and techniques. My Swahili methods work, and I’ve put them into practice teaching refugees and relatives of Swahili speakers living abroad. In addition to teaching Swahili, I’ve worked as a private music teacher and served as a university instructional assistant. My teaching is down-to-earth, direct, and to-the-point. But I also embrace the importance of humor in the learning process! I’m motivated to ensure you are well-equipped to reach your Swahili language goals.

804 Lessons

Pius Ntinya

I'm experienced tutor, i have taught in schools for more than fifteen years and online for three years. I'am also highly skilled in language teaching approaches, techniques, strategies and methods. I have also undergone a special course for teaching non native speakers of Swahili language. I know how to encourage and motivate learners. I can speak Swahili, English & French.

2,173 Lessons

K'ogot Peter

A professional Swahili teacher with 6 years of experience and over 2000 lessons (hours) taught. I’m a communication professional with a BSc in Communication and Public Relations. Besides, I have 6 years of experience in English and Swahili tutoring

758 Lessons

Shelmith Weru

A Swahili lover helping all learners find their passion and voice in Swahili.I'm the Swahili girl:) 🌼 Bachelor's degree in teaching 🌼 Native Swahili speaker 🌼 Wide range of knowledge in both written and spoken Swahili 🌼 Readily available teaching material 🌼 Personalized class experience depending on student's learning goals 🌼 Happy & fun classes with loads of pictures, songs & videos. 🌼Focuses on achieving your Swahili learning goals 🌼 Good communication skills 🌼 Flexible 🌸 Karibu sana (Welcome) and let's have fun learning 😊

124 Lessons

Swahili tutor for beginner, Intermediate and Advanced students. I am a teacher by proffesion. Offline, I teach swahili and religion in highschool to learners aged between 13-19 years. Online, I have had the opportunity to tutor learners off all ages who are learning and improving their Swahili and English. As a teacher, I am friendly and patient with my students. I tailor my lessons to meet their needs and focus on achieve their learning goals.

3,062 Lessons

GEORGES 戈麦斯

I'm french native speaker with more than 4 years experience in online tutoring. (test, conv. GR...) I am enthusiastic, approachable, and strongly committed to facilitating your learning experience. I deeply care about creating a friendly and safe classroom atmosphere in order to raise your self-esteem and confidence and make you feel comfortable enough to participate. It doesn’t take me long to determine your learning style and adapt my teaching methods to your needs. I’m also very responsive to your learning pace.My teaching style is pretty much task-based. I think we can make the most of our time together and learn more deeply if the activities we are doing make sense. My ultimate goals are to make you fully engaged in your learning and effectively progress.

Samuel Nyamao

I am a vibrant teacher with five years experience in teaching secondary/high school students in Kenya .Kiswahili is my passion and I love it. My qualifications enable me to understand the classroom environment and elements that enhance learning. I am a dedicated teacher that always gives my best.

161 Lessons

zachariah getubo

After clearing my form four exam I was employed as a Swahili teacher in a local Kenyan high school. I later joined college training as a Swahili teacher. Am inspired to be a teacher as both my parents are teachers. I have also taught a couple of international Swahili students. Recently I graduated from college and for the past three months I have been doing my teaching attachment with young children who are starting to speak swahili. I have therefore decided to teach all global students including beginner children and those who want to learn swahili for business issues and to those who want to learn swahili for test preparation. I will be glad to have you as my first global student.

1,456 Lessons

Suleiman Salvatore

Experienced Swahili teacher from Zanzibar As a polyglot, I’ve got a huge knowledge of different languages. The knowledge of languages I have, helped me understand how hard is to learn foreign languages. And it taught me how easy is to learn foreign languages. So, I’ll share with my students' tips and processes to follow in their language journey

154 Lessons

Mwalimu Angela

I am a passionate Swahili native tutor. See you in class. Learning a new language is good as it helps one to express themselves, hence making interaction easy.I enjoy sharing knowledge with my students and watch them gain confidence in holding conversation and be able to communicate. I am patient and understanding which are key virtues when teaching a language.

118 Lessons

Experienced English and Swahili Tutor - As a certified language educator, I have a deep understanding of English and Swahili grammar, vocabulary, and culture. My lessons are tailored to your specific needs and learning style. - My classes are engaging and interactive, with a focus on real-life communication. You'll gain confidence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. - I understand your busy lifestyle. That's why I offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your availability.

Kimbarly Ayuma

native swahili teacher with over 100hrs of teaching experience. I like to laugh while we learn. Respectful, tolerant and very flexible. I'm accommodative to all people and majorly focus on our learning material during class time. I have a fun approach to learning and encourage my students to participate in all in class activities without fear of judgement.

2,856 Lessons

Teacher Kevin

🌟 Listening & speaking practice. 🌟 Constructing simple, complete & correct sentences. 🌟 Describing people, things & situations. 🌟 Happy & fun classes with lots of pictures, songs & videos. 🌟 Good communication with parents about their kids. 🏅【English for Travel Course】🏅 🌟 English at the airport & while using public transport abroad. 🌟 English while booking a hotel & using a restaurant abroad. 🌟 English while using touristic sites abroad. 🌟 English while shopping abroad. 🌟 English while talking to the local people abroad. 🌟 Learning about different cultures around the world. 🏅【English Grammar Course】🏅 🌟 Part of speech in detail.

2,398 Lessons

I am a patient and compassionate teacher; and I'll take you through organized learning so you won't get confused at all. I believe in a positive, comfortable and relaxing environment for the best learning My objective is to ensure that you are able to immerse the language you are learning in daily learning and day to day situations by being your or one of your practice partners. My aim is for you to become an effective, fluent and confident communicator in the mentioned languages, through a fun and interactive class.

398 Lessons

Casual learning, tailored majorly by learners. My teaching style is deeply rooted in the principles of student-centered learning and individualized instruction. I believe that to effectively meet the diverse needs of my students, I must tailor my teaching approach to accommodate their unique backgrounds, learning styles, and abilities. By adopting a flexible and adaptive teaching methodology, I can create a supportive and engaging learning environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Swahili and English Tutor: Master Kiswahili B1 and English B1 with Personalized Lessons I'm recognized for my dynamic teaching approach, integrating technology and real-world illustrations to enhance student engagement. With meticulously planned lessons, I strive to ensure comprehension, always ready to provide additional support. Regardless of learning pace or style, I maintain kindness and patience, finding fulfillment in guiding students towards their aspirations. Witnessing their Swahili proficiency grow brings me immense satisfaction and a profound sense of achievement. Let me leverage my personal, academic, and professional expertise to refine your Swahili proficiency.

Lorine Adhiambo

I'm a native Swahili speaker and enjoy teaching others. I am excited to be able to meet people from other cultures and teach them my native tongue of Swahili which I'm so proud of. As your teacher I'm hard working, understanding, and patient.

1,358 Lessons

I'm a professionally certified teacher with 13 years of experience as an English and Swahili teacher I am a passionate and results-oriented online tutor committed to unlocking the full potential of my students. With 13 years of experience in education, I specialize in providing personalized learning experiences that cater to each student's unique needs and learning style. I teach kids too!(3-15 years -old). My goal is not only to help students achieve academic success but also to instill confidence and a love for learning. I offer tutoring services in English and Swahili languages, interviews and exam preparations. Whether it's mastering complex concepts, improving study skills, or preparing for exams, I tailor my approach to meet the specific goals and challenges of each student.

180 Lessons

Nelius Mbato

As a teacher, I always strive to make my lessons as interactive , fun and interesting as possible. I also try to be dynamic in my teaching styles to accommodate all my students. My greatest joy is when my student is able to learn and is able to communicate language from beginner level to advanced level. I have had wonderful experiences with my students in my country and look forward to interacting with even more students from all over the world.

Frequently asked questions about online Swahili lessons

Finding a qualified online Swahili tutor on italki is easy. Simply visit our platform and browse through a diverse range of experienced tutors. You can review their profiles, which include their qualifications, teaching experience, and student reviews. This information will help you choose a tutor who matches your learning goals and preferences. You can also take advantage of trial lessons to assess their teaching style before committing. With italki, you have the freedom to select the perfect Swahili tutor who aligns with your learning needs and schedule. Start your Swahili learning journey today and connect with a skilled tutor on italki!

Swahili tutors on italki come with a variety of teaching qualifications and experiences. Many possess formal language teaching certifications, degrees in education, or specialized training in teaching Swahili as a second language. Additionally, their profiles showcase details about their education, qualifications, and teaching methods. You can review their teaching certificates, academic backgrounds, and student reviews to ensure they meet your standards. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your Swahili skills, you’ll find tutors with diverse qualifications who can tailor their approach to suit your learning style and goals.

The cost of online Swahili lessons on italki can vary based on factors such as the tutor’s experience, qualifications, and the type of lesson you choose (private, group, trial). On average, private lessons might range from $10 to $30 per hour. Some tutors also offer discounted packages. Remember that cost shouldn’t be the sole factor; consider the tutor’s expertise, teaching style, and student reviews when making your decision. italki provides a diverse range of options to suit different budgets and learning needs, ensuring you find the right tutor within your preferred price range.

Yes, you can generally reschedule or cancel your Swahili courses on italki, but the specific policy may vary depending on the tutor you choose. Many tutors have their own cancellation and rescheduling policies, which are usually outlined on their italki profiles. It’s important to communicate with your chosen tutor about any scheduling changes well in advance to ensure a smooth learning experience. Additionally, it’s advisable to review the tutor’s cancellation and rescheduling policies before booking a lesson to avoid any misunderstandings and ensure flexibility in your learning journey.

Yes, many Swahili tutors on italki provide personalized learning materials as part of their teaching approach. These materials can include tailored exercises, worksheets, audio recordings, and more, designed to address your specific learning goals and needs. Communicate with your chosen tutor about your preferences and areas of focus, and they can create or recommend appropriate learning resources to enhance your Swahili learning journey. Customized materials can significantly contribute to a more engaging and effective learning experience, helping you make steady progress in mastering the Swahili language.

Ready to start learning Swahili today? Sign up now to find the perfect Swahili teacher for you and take your language skills to the next level!

LIMITED TIME OFFER: 65% OFF ENDS IN

In your car.

Wherever you are.

Swahili Vol. 1-3 [BUNDLE]

$15.99 $47.90 usd.

Learn more >>

Swahili Vol. 1 Lesson 1-30.

$7.99 $23.90 usd.

Swahili Vol. 2 Lesson 31-50.

Swahili Vol. 3 Lesson 51-70.

GET THIS AUDIO COURSE

Learn conversational swahili vol. 1 audio course, boost your fluency in swahili, course overview.

Learn Conversational Swahili Vol. 1 is an audio course for beginners or for anyone who struggles with becoming fluent in Swahili. The focus of this course is to practice speaking conversational Swahili from the very first lesson.

The course is divided into 30 lessons and several review lessons. Each lesson contains useful everyday phrases related to a specific topic.

Based on techniques and strategies that make language learners succeed:

• Learn in short bursts every day Each lesson takes about 10-15 minutes to complete.
• Learn in context Isolated words or random sentences won’t get you far. By learning phrases related to a specific topic or situation you will see much better results.
• Focus on high-frequency words Starting with the most frequently used words will boost your comprehension and communication in your target language.
• Review the material Repeating the phrases at certain specified intervals is a powerful technique to help your memory absorb and recall what you have learned.
• Listen to native speakers All the phrases are translated and spoken by native speakers.

COURSE CONTENT

• arrow_drop_down 1: Hello! Free Listen to "Lesson 1: Hello!" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• arrow_drop_down 2: Who is this? Free Listen to "Lesson 2: Who is this?" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• arrow_drop_down 3: Where do you live? Free Listen to "Lesson 3: Where do you live?" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• arrow_drop_down 4: Where do you live? pt.2 Free Listen to "Lesson 4: Where do you live? pt 2" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• arrow_drop_down 5: What do you like to do? Free Listen to "Lesson 5: What do you like to do?" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• arrow_drop_down Review lessons 1 to 5 Free Listen to "Review of lessons 1 to 5" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• lock 6: What do you like to do? pt.2
• lock 7: What do you like to eat?
• lock 8: Do you go out much?
• lock 9: What are you doing?
• lock 10: What are you doing? pt.2
• lock Review lessons 6 to 10
• lock Listening Comprehension: Lessons 1 to 10
• lock 11: Are you married?
• lock 12: How old are you?
• lock 13: Do you have children?
• lock 14: Travel and vacation
• lock 15: Where is...?
• lock Review lessons 11 to 15
• lock 16: What did you do today?
• lock 17: What did you do today? pt.2
• lock 18: What do you do?
• lock 19: What's the weather like?
• lock 20: How was the weather?
• lock Review lessons 16 to 20
• lock Listening Comprehension: Lessons 11 to 20
• lock 21: Where are you?
• lock 22: Where were you yesterday?
• lock 23: Where were you yesterday? pt.2
• lock 24: Can you speak... ?
• lock 25: Can you speak... ? pt.2
• lock Review lessons 21 to 25
• lock 26: How often do you...?
• lock 27: How often do you...? pt.2
• lock 28: How was your week?
• lock 29: Opinions
• lock 30: Time (and day) to talk
• lock Review lessons 26 to 30
• lock Listening Comprehension: Lessons 21 to 30

Learn Conversational Swahili Vol. 2 Audio Course

Learn Conversational Swahili Vol. 2 is an audio course for beginners or for anyone who struggles with becoming fluent in Swahili. The focus of this course is to practice speaking conversational Swahili from the very first lesson.

In these lessons, you’ll be introduced to several “conversation connectors”. Phrases like “as a matter of fact”, “frankly speaking”, “as you already know” and more. By using such phrases, your conversations will have a more natural flow. You will also expand your vocabulary and talk about daily activities, work, plans, and needs.

• arrow_drop_down 31: Have you eaten lunch yet? Free Listen to "Lesson 31: Have you eaten lunch yet?" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• lock 32: Opinions pt. 2
• lock 33: What time do you start work?
• lock 34: Travel and vacation pt. 2
• lock 35: Daily activities pt. 1
• lock Review lessons 31 to 35
• arrow_drop_down 32: Opinions pt. 2 Free Listen to "Lesson 2: Who is this?" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• arrow_drop_down 33: What time do you start work? Free Listen to "Lesson 3: Where do you live?" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• arrow_drop_down 34: Travel and vacation pt. 2 Free Listen to "Lesson 4: Where do you live? pt.2" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• arrow_drop_down 35: Daily activities pt. 1 Free Listen to "Lesson 5: What do you like to do?" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• arrow_drop_down Review lessons 31 to 35 Free Listen to "Review of lessons 1 to 5" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• lock 36: Daily activities pt. 2
• lock 37: Where do you work?
• lock 38: What do you feel like doing?
• lock 39: What do you need?
• lock 40: What are you planning to do?
• lock Review lessons 36 to 40
• lock Listening Comprehension: Lessons 31 to 40
• lock 41: I'm sorry to bother you, but...
• lock 42: What are you scared of?
• lock 43: What are you thinking about?
• lock 44: How was the party?
• lock 45: What's the matter?
• lock Review lessons 41 to 45
• lock 46: What did you do last night?
• lock 47: Goodbyes
• lock 48: Describing people
• lock 49: Pets and hobbies
• lock 50: What time is it?
• lock Review lessons 46 to 50
• lock Listening Comprehension: Lessons 41 to 50

Learn Conversational Swahili Vol. 3 Audio Course

Learn Conversational Swahili Vol. 3 is an audio course for beginners or for anyone who struggles with becoming fluent in Swahili. The focus of this course is to practice speaking conversational Swahili from the very first lesson.

In these twenty lessons, you'll be introduced to a lot of useful, everyday phrases and sentence structures. You'll also be able to expand your vocabulary and talk about daily activities, shopping, education, technology and much more.

• arrow_drop_down 51: Who are you waiting for? Free Listen to "Lesson 51: Who are you waiting for?" on Spreaker. file_download Audio file_download PDF
• lock 52: Shopping pt.1
• lock 53: Shopping pt. 2
• lock 54: Do you know him?
• lock 55: Where do you live? pt. 3
• lock Review of lessons 51 to 55
• lock 56: What do you like to watch on TV?
• lock 57: School and education
• lock 58: It smells delicious!
• lock 59: What are you wearing?
• lock 60: Wishing and hoping
• lock Review of lessons 56 to 60
• lock Listening Comprehension: Lessons 51 to 60
• lock 61: Do you know how to get to...
• lock 62: Technology pt. 1
• lock 63: Technology pt. 2
• lock 64: Please be quiet!
• lock 65: It's a beautiful day, isn't it?
• lock Review of lessons 61 to 65
• lock 66: Why are you laughing?
• lock 67: Compliments
• lock 68: Describing people pt. 2
• lock 69: Making plans
• lock 70: Can you help me?
• lock Review of lessons 66 to 70
• lock Listening Comprehension: Lessons 61 to 70

Learn Conversational Swahili Vol. 1-3 Audio Course [BUNDLE]

Learn Conversational Swahili Vol. 1-3 is an audio course for beginners or for anyone who struggles with becoming fluent in Swahili. The focus of this course is to practice speaking conversational Swahili from the very first lesson.

Course content Volume 1 Course content Volume 2 Course content Volume 3

CHOOSE A LANGUAGE:

Arabic (Syrian)

Chinese (Mandarin)

Haitian Creole

Portuguese (Brazilian)

Spanish (Lat. Am.)

Tagalog (Filipino)

New releases: Ukrainian Vol. 1-3

Find tutors

The 6 Best Online Swahili Classes of 2024 for All Levels

There are countless online Swahili classes out there, the important thing is knowing how to choose the perfect one for you. At AmazingTalker we have collected data from over 1061900 students to help you find the most suitable online Swahili course. From beginner classes, business Swahili to exam prep, we have specialized teachers in each for you to compare prices and reviews. If you have little time to choose, you can fill out the form and we will recommend the most suitable online Swahili teacher for you, taking into account your objectives, budget and available time.

• 0 Students learning
• 0 Professional tutors
• 100% Satisfaction rate

What are your learning goals for the course?

Swahili for beginners, swahili for travel.

• Fundamental Swahili
• Swahili for adults

Swahili grammar

• Basic Swahili
• Swahili for kids (3-5)
• Business Swahili
• Swahili for test preparation

Swahili courses

The course for beginners (Level 2) is the next course after the basic Swahili course. In this course, students will have the opportunity for intensive practice with native tutors.

• Reviews: 5 209 reviews
• Courses: 5 209 reviews

The Swahili for travel course is designed to teach you key vocabulary for traveling in Swahili-speaking countries. Build your Swahili skills and speak with greater confidence during your travels!

• Reviews: 5 68 reviews
• Courses: 5 68 reviews

The grammar course aims to help you build your grammar skills. AmazingTalker’s tutors take the time to better understand your specific needs, and then design a customized learning plan and exercises for you to improve your grammar.

• Reviews: 5 34 reviews
• Courses: 5 34 reviews

Our Online Swahili Class Features

At AmazingTalker, we know every student’s level and knowledge of Swahili are different – that's why all of our courses are designed to support your individual learning goals. Our Swahili tutors work with students to understand their needs, and then create a program tailored for each learner.

More than 1,000,000+ students

It can be hard to find time to study Swahili, which is why AmazingTalker makes it easier for students to learn from anywhere, and at any time. We offer online 1-on-1 private tutoring and small Swahili classes for up to 6 students. Don’t let a busy schedule prevent you from learning Swahili. Try a class with AmazingTalker today.

24/7 learning with tutors from 119 countries

We believe the best way to learn Swahili is to immerse yourself in an environment where you try only to use Swahili. At AmazingTalker, you can build your skills in spoken Swahili, as well as in pronunciation, reading and writing with our native Swahili speaking tutors!

Thousands of classes taken each day

Setting clear language goals and monitoring your progress isn't always easy. That's why our qualified Swahili tutors will help you set clear learning objectives, while helping you monitor your progress and overcome obstacles in your language learning.

Average class cost: $10.99 - $24.99 / session (50 min)

Sometimes you run into a language-related problem when you're not in class. AmazingTalker makes it easier to get help from our Swahili tutors, by using live chat on our website or communicating through our messenger app.

Prompt assistance from 3,000+ tutors

How do I start?

100% guarantee on every lesson, tutors receive payment only after students have taken their class., if you're not satisfied with your lesson, you can change to another tutor at no extra cost..

great lesson with a great teacher. Thank you

Njeri is a wonderful educator and I recommend her for anyone wanting to learn swahili.

I learn alot during each session

Daniel was an excellent teacher and I am thrilled to continue to learn from him.

Joshua is kind, friendly, and knowledgeable about the Swahili language! He was able to explain confusing concepts to me very well in English. He's also just a lot of fun to chat with! I would highly recommend Joshua for Swahili lessons.

Great lesson, and a nice one for practicing speaking while simultaneously learning about current events in Kenya.

US$8.86 - US$14.76 / hr

US$9.26 - US$15.44 / hr

US$5.40 - US$9.00 / hr

Discover Swahili: Unlock the Gateway to East Africa

Welcome to our Swahili language course! Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to deepen your understanding and fluency, our program is tailored to immerse you fully in both the language and the vibrant cultures of East Africa.

Why Learn Swahili?

Swahili, also known as Kiswahili, is a major lingua franca in East Africa. Millions speak it in several countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Here’s why Swahili can be a valuable addition to your language skills: mative experience for you:

Cultural Access

Rich traditions.

Dive into the diverse cultures of East Africa, from traditional music and dance to customs and ceremonies.

Literature and Film

Explore Swahili literature and vibrant film industries like Bongo from Tanzania.

Business and Travel

Trade and commerce.

With the growth of the East African Community, Swahili opens up numerous business opportunities in the region.

Communicate effectively and enrich your travel experience in famous destinations like Zanzibar, the Serengeti, and the Maasai Mara.

Educational and Development Opportunities

Development work.

Swahili is essential for anyone working in international development or NGO sectors within East Africa.

Academic Research

Gain a linguistic tool for conducting research in various disciplines related to the region.

Our Course Offerings

Tailored learning levels, beginner to advanced.

Courses are structured to cater to different levels of proficiency, ensuring personalized and progressive learning.

Flexible Learning Modes

Online classes.

Join our interactive online sessions led by experienced instructors, accessible globally.

In-Person Sessions

For those in or visiting the area, participate in our immersive classes offered at various locations.

Experienced Instructors

Our team includes native speakers and certified language experts passionate about teaching and promoting Swahili.

Comprehensive Curriculum

Language skills development.

Focus on speaking, listening, reading, and writing to develop comprehensive language abilities.

Cultural Integration

Engage in cultural workshops, cooking classes, and local outings to experience Swahili in practical settings.

Enroll in Our Swahili Course Today!

Ready to start your Swahili journey? Here’s how to get involved:

Discuss your learning goals with our admissions team.

Choose Your Class

Select from a variety of class schedules including weekend and evening options.

Register Online

Secure your spot in our upcoming classes through our simple online registration process.

Join Our Community

By enrolling in our Swahili course, you’re not just learning a language—you’re becoming part of a community. Participate in language exchange events, cultural festivals, and discussions that enrich your understanding and appreciation of East African cultures. Dive into the world of Swahili. Enroll today and unlock new personal and professional opportunities.

The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of Saryg-Bulun (Tuva)

<< Previous page

Pages:  379-406

In 1988, the Tuvan Archaeological Expedition (led by M. E. Kilunovskaya and V. A. Semenov) discovered a unique burial of the early Iron Age at Saryg-Bulun in Central Tuva. There are two burial mounds of the Aldy-Bel culture dated by 7th century BC. Within the barrows, which adjoined one another, forming a figure-of-eight, there were discovered 7 burials, from which a representative collection of artifacts was recovered. Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather headdress painted with red pigment and a coat, sewn from jerboa fur. The coat was belted with a leather belt with bronze ornaments and buckles. Besides that, a leather quiver with arrows with the shafts decorated with painted ornaments, fully preserved battle pick and a bow were buried in the coffin. Unexpectedly, the full-genomic analysis, showed that the individual was female. This fact opens a new aspect in the study of the social history of the Scythian society and perhaps brings us back to the myth of the Amazons, discussed by Herodotus. Of course, this discovery is unique in its preservation for the Scythian culture of Tuva and requires careful study and conservation.

Keywords: Tuva, Early Iron Age, early Scythian period, Aldy-Bel culture, barrow, burial in the coffin, mummy, full genome sequencing, aDNA

Information about authors: Marina Kilunovskaya (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Vladimir Semenov (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Varvara Busova  (Moscow, Russian Federation).  (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences.  Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Kharis Mustafin  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Technical Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Irina Alborova  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Biological Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Alina Matzvai  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected]

Shopping Cart Items: 0 Cart Total: 0,00 € place your order

Price pdf version

student - 2,75 € individual - 3,00 € institutional - 7,00 €

Copyright В© 1999-2022. Stratum Publishing House

• SMP WEDDINGS
• SMP’S VENUE BLOG
• LITTLE BLACK BOOK BLOG
• LBB INDUSTRY BLOG
• DESTINATION
• NEW ENGLAND
• THE NORTHWEST
• THE MIDWEST
• THE SOUTHWEST
• THE SOUTHEAST
• THE MID-ATLANTIC
• THE TRI-STATE AREA

Russia Weddings

• Real Weddings
• Bridal Week
• Engagements & Proposals
• Seasonal Wedding Trends
• Bridal Beauty
• Wedding Fashion Trends
• Vendor Guide
• DIY Projects
• Registry Guide
• Engagements & Proposals
• by Melissa Hammam
• comments ( )

Hands up if you’re ready to be dazzled! From a ceremony structure designed to float on water to a jaw-dropping reception room with flowers blooming from every service, we’re swooning over every bit of this wedding. If you can believe it, that’s just the beginning. Julia Kaptelova artfully shot every detail, like the ballet performance guests were treated to and snow falling from the ceiling for the first dance! Prepare to be amazed and take a visit to the full gallery .

From About You Decor … Our design is a symbol of dawn and a distant endless horizon. Ahead is a long, happy life without any borders. An international couple, Pavel and Cherry, met in London and have been walking together for many years.

From the Bride, Cherry… My husband and I we decided to have our summer wedding in Moscow because the city is where his roots are. As we knew we were going to have the other wedding ceremony in China, we wanted our Moscow one to be very personal and intimate. We’ve known each other since we were fourteen, together with many of our friends whom we’ve also known for a decade.

I didn’t want to walk down the aisle twice so the plausibility of my request quickly came into discussion. The open pontoon stage was constructed in order to facilitate the bridal entrance on water, although there were concerns about safety as the last thing we wanted was probably a drowned bride before she could get on stage, picture that! I have to say on that day it wasn’t easy to get on the pontoon stage from the boat, in my long gown and high heels. Luckily my bridesmaids still noticed even though they stood the furthest from me on the stage, and helped me out without prior rehearsal. My girls could just tell whenever I needed a hand or maybe they were just so used to my clumsiness. Who knows 😂

We all love our photographer Julia! She’s so talented and her style is so unique. Our beloved host Alex is exceptional who made everyone laugh and cry. It was truly a blessing to have so many kind and beautiful souls on our big day. Thank you all!

[iframe https://player.vimeo.com/video/384992271 600 338]

Photography: Julia Kaptelova Photography | Wedding Planner: Caramel | Cake: Any Cake | Invitations: Inviteria | Rings: Harry Winston | Band: Menhouzen | Grooms attire: Ermenegildo Zegna | Wedding Venue: Elizaveta Panichkina | Bridesmaids’ dresses: Marchesa | Bridesmaids’ dresses: Alice McCall | Bride’s gown : Jaton Couture | Bride’s shoes: Manolo Blahnik | Decor : About you decor | Earrings: Damiani | Muah: Khvanaco Studio | Video: Artem Korchagin

More Princess-Worthy Ballgowns

I’m still not convinced this Moscow wedding, captured to perfection by  Sonya Khegay , isn’t actually an inspiration session—it’s just  that breathtaking. From the beautiful Bride’s gorgeous lace wedding dress and flawless hair and makeup to the pretty pastel color palette and stunning ceremony and reception spaces, this wedding is almost too good to be true. Do yourself a favor and see it all in The Vault now!

From Sonya Khegay … It was the last day of April and still very cold in the morning. The weather forecast wasn’t pleasing and no one expected that the sun would come out, but miracles happen and light rain gave way to the warm rays.

I love how all the details went together, you could feel the harmony in everything throughout the entire wedding day from the morning until the fireworks.

A gentle look of the bride, elegant but so airy and unique decor, the fresh and light atmosphere of early spring and, of course, true happiness in the eyes. My heart becomes so warm from these memories, it is always a pleasure to see the birth of a new family of two loving hearts.

Photography: Sonya Khegay | Event Design: Latte Decor | Event Planning: Ajur Wedding | Floral Design: Blush Petals | Wedding Dress: La Sposa | Stationery: Special Invite | Bride's Shoes: Gianvito Rossi | Hair + Makeup: Natalie Yastrebova | Venue: Rodniki Hotel

• by Elizabeth Greene

You really can’t go wrong with simple: a beautiful Bride , perfectly pretty petals , loved ones all around. But add in an amazing firework show  to cap off the night and simple just became downright extraordinary. Captured by Lena Elisseva , with assistance by  Katya Butenko , this rustic Russian celebration is simply fantastic. See it all in the Vault right here !

From Lena Eliseeva Photo …  This cozy and warm summer wedding of gorgeous Natalia and Anton was in the middle of June. The young couple decided to organize their wedding themselves, and the day was very personal and touching. I am absolutely in love with rustic outdoor weddings, and this one is my favourite because of the free and easy atmosphere.

All the decor excluding the bride’s bouquet was made by a team of ten friends of the bride and groom. And it was charming – a light and beautiful arch, eco-style polygraphy and succulents, candy-bar with caramel apples and berries – sweet joys of summer.

At the end of ceremony the guests tossed up white handkerchiefs embroidered by Natalia’s own hands.

The most touching moment was the happy eyes of the groom’s grandmother, the most estimable person on the wedding. And the fireworks were a bright end to that beautiful day.

Photography: LENA ELISEEVA PHOTO | Floral Design: Katerina Kazakova | Hair And Makeup: Svetlana Fischeva | Photography - Assistance: Katya Butenko

These photos from Lena Kozhina are so stunningly beautiful – as in you can’t help but stop and stare – it’s hard to believe it’s real life. But these pics are proof of this gorgeous Bride and her handsome Groom’s celebration at Moscow’s Fox Lodge , surrounded by vibrant colors and breathtaking blooms . Oh, and the idea of prepping for your Big Day outside in the sun ? Brilliant. See more bright ideas right here !

From Lena Kozhina … When we met with the couple for the first time, we immediately paid attention to Dima’s behavior towards Julia. There was a feeling of tenderness and awe, and we immediately wanted to recreate this atmosphere of love, care and warmth on their Big Day.

Later, when we had chosen a green meadow and an uncovered pavilion overlooking a lake as the project site, it only highlighted a light summer mood with colorful florals and a great number of natural woods. The name of the site is Fox Lodge and peach-orange color, as one of the Bride’s favorites, set the tone for the whole design – from the invitations, in which we used images of fox cubs to elements of serving guest tables and other decorative elements with the corresponding bright accents.

Photography: Lena Kozhina | Event Planning: Ajur Wedding | Wedding Dress: Rosa Clara | Shoes: Marc Jacobs | Catering: Fox Lodge | Makeup Artist: Elena Otrembskaya | Wedding Venue: Fox Lodge | Cake and Desserts: Yumbaker | Decor: Latte Decor

From Our Partners

Pruning Trees in the Home Landscape

Pruning a broken branch

Pruning, or the selective removal of specific branches or stems, is an important maintenance practice that helps to keep your trees healthy for many years to come.

Important reasons to prune mature trees include controlling size, providing clearance for foot traffic or vehicles, removing potentially hazardous branches, and improving appearance.

• Pruning large trees and any tree work that requires climbing or near power lines is dangerous and should be performed by a licensed tree expert or certified arborist.
• Remove damaged, diseased, and dead branches at any time. 

Why prune young trees?

Young trees can be pruned to prevent future branch structure issues or, if needed, to create a desired shape or form.

Young trees frequently need pruning to establish a beneficial branch structure. At first, however, newly planted trees should be pruned only when there are broken or damaged branches. It is a myth that trees should be pruned when planted to compensate for root loss, because leaves and shoot tips provide food and growth substances that stimulate root production.

Young trees need their low temporary branches to provide sustenance, though they should be kept short enough not to compete with permanent branches. Low temporary branches also protect the trunk. As the tree grows taller, the lower branches may be removed, keeping desirable branches. As a tree grows, branches do not move farther off the ground. Prune off the low temporary branches gradually, over a course of several years, and before they reach one inch in diameter.

Never remove more than one-fourth of a tree’s branches at one time. Remember: it is better to make several small pruning cuts than one big cut. Avoid cutting large branches when possible.

Dominant leader

Maintain a single dominant leader stem, which is the tallest, strongest, main branch of the tree. Do not prune back this leader or allow secondary branches to outgrow the leader. If a tree has co-dominant stems (known as double leaders), remove one to avoid structural weakness. Save the straightest and strongest stem. Prevent competing branches from growing larger than half the trunk diameter by removing them or bending them downward to slow their growth.

Branch structure

Proper pruning leaves secondary branches all along the larger branches. It is better to remove branches from the edges of the tree.

Branch attachment or crotches

The angle formed between two branches is called the crotch. Sometimes branches develop with narrow angles of attachment, that is, with tight crotches. As the tree grows, the bark becomes enclosed within the crotch, which leads to weakness and branch failure or dieback. Branches with narrow crotches should be removed or stretched to a wider angle when the tree is young. To widen crotches, use spacers, sometimes called spreaders, or simply bend the branch to a wider angle while it is still young and supple. Spreaders can be made of wire or wood and are positioned in a crotch, pushing it wider. Weights, also, can be tied to branches to widen the crotch angle. The spreaders or weights should be removed after a season. The spreading and spacing of branches is an old established practice for fruit trees that can be applied to any tree.

• (PDF)  Developing a Pruning Program for Young Trees . University of Florida IFAS Extension, Edward F. Gilman and Amanda Bisson. Publication No. ENH 1062

Pruning techniques for mature trees

If properly pruned when young, mature trees seldom need major pruning. These three techniques illustrated below can be used by tree experts when necessary. Tree work that requires climbing or near overhead power lines should be performed by a trained tree-care professional. 

Crown thinning

The selective removal of branches to increase light penetration and air movement in the crown, or canopy, of a tree.

Thinning reduces wind damage by diminishing the degree of wind block. No more than one-fourth of the living crown should be removed at any one time. Removing a portion of a branch causes the terminal portion of the remaining branch to become dominant. This remaining dominant branch should be strongly attached. Therefore, when thinning it is best to cut to a side branch that is at least one-third the size of the one being cut. Branches smaller than that will not be joined as strongly and be more susceptible to breakage. When cutting back a branch to one of its lateral branches, remove no more than one-fourth of its foliage.

Crown raising

The removal of lower branches.

Afterward, at least two-thirds of the total height of the tree must still have living branches. Crown raising is frequently done to allow foot or vehicle traffic or lawnmowers under the tree. Street trees require at least 16 feet of clearance for trucks. Lawn trees need eight feet of clearance for foot traffic. Trees used for screening or windbreak can be allowed to have branches near the ground.

Crown reduction

The proper removal of upper branches when the tree has become too tall.

When a tree is too tall, it is better to remove it. Never top (removing large branches or/and trunks from treetops, leaving stubs, and not making proper pruning cuts) a shade tree to control its size. Topping causes the growth of many weak suckers that may break off when they become heavy branches causing a possibly hazardous situation. Wood rots are more likely to be a problem in topped trees. If a tree must be reduced in size, use the crown reduction pruning entire branches at their point of origin. Tipping is the procedure of cutting lateral branches between nodes or buds to reduce crown width rather than cutting back to a node or crotch. It is another procedure that should not be used.

Proper pruning cuts

Never cut the branch flush with the trunk, thus removing the branch collar. The collar is an area of natural shedding that contains chemically protective tissue that encourages rapid sealing off of the wound left behind after pruning.

Tree wound dressing, paint, or shellac should not be applied over the cut surfaces. Research shows that dressings can shelter disease organisms and slow the wound-healing process (compartmentalization).

[Watch a video] Principles of Pruning - Making a Good Cut | Iowa State University

Removing larger branches

Removing branches over 1½ inches in diameter requires a special three-cut pruning process (see illustration below). This avoids the misfortunate event when, before the pruning cut is even complete, the weight of the branch breaks it off, leaving a ragged wound and ripping bark from the trunk.

• Saw an upward cut halfway through the branch about a foot beyond where it intersects the trunk.
• Then saw a cut downward all the way through the branch somewhat farther out from the first undercut. This removes the excess weight of the branch.
• Now make the third and finishing cut perpendicular to the trunk on the branch side of the collar which is the thickened area at the intersection of the branches. (If there is no visible collar, make the final cut where the top of the branch makes an abrupt turn from the trunk.) 

Pruning conifers

Plant larger conifers such as fir, spruce, and pine only in areas where heavy pruning will not be necessary, since new shoots will not develop from cuts made in the older wood.  Conifers do not need pruning for spacing of lateral branches. Branches emerge close to each other but will not crowd out each other or the leader. Appropriate vertical spacing occurs naturally.

Firs and spruces may only be lightly pruned in late summer, fall, or winter after growth is completed. Leave the side buds present along the twigs. Never cut the central leader. 

Pines may be lightly pruned in early June to increase density by removing the bud plus an inch or so of the young shoots. If large cuts are made, new branches will arise only in the area where needles are present along the stem. To thicken the growth of conifer trees such as pine, fir, or spruce pinch out half the candle, which is the new spring growth, when it is about two inches long. Use fingers rather than shears.  (refer to the illustration below)

When to prune

• The following trees develop flowers on old wood; therefore, prune them immediately after they are finished blooming. Serviceberry (Amelanchier), redbud (Cercis), fringe tree (Chionanthus), dogwood (Cornus), saucer magnolia (Magnolia soulangiana), crabapple (Malus), and flowering cherries (Prunus). 
• These trees flower in summer or autumn on new wood; therefore, prune them during the late winter or spring while they are dormant. Smoke tree (Cotinus coggygria), American holly (Ilex opaca), and crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica). 
• Stressed trees should not be pruned since all leaves are important for recovery. However, diseased, broken, or dead branches should be removed.
• Some trees, including birch, maple, dogwood, elm, walnut, and yellowwood exude an excessive amount of sap (referred to as bleeding) from pruning wounds made in late winter or early spring. This is not harmful to the tree, however, it can be avoided by pruning such trees in late fall/early winter (November-December) or after new spring growth is finished in May or June. 
• Physical damage to tree trunks requires special attention. All loose bark from the edges of a wound should be trimmed back to bark firmly attached to the sapwood (the layer of wood under the bark). Carefully remove all shredded sapwood, too, and leave a smooth surface.
• Leave old wounds undisturbed, especially when callus or tissue has developed along the outside edge of the wound. Trees protect themselves from decay organisms through a process called compartmentalization, and callus tissue is part of that defense mechanism.
• Broken terminal leaders can be replaced by tying a lateral branch into a vertical position braced with a wooden stick, making it the new leader. When the new leader is growing vertically on its own, remove the tie.

Based on Home and Garden Information Center publication HG 84 Pruning Ornamental Plants, author Virginia Williams, CPH, Former Home and Garden Information Center Consultant, UME Bulletin 150 Pruning Ornamental Trees and Shrubs, author Dr. Francis Gouin (deceased) and revised by Ray Bosmans, Professor Emeritus, University of Maryland Extension, and the Maryland Master Gardener Handbook (revised January 2012).

Bedker, Peter; O'Brien, Joseph; Mielke, Manfred. 2012. How to Prune Trees. NA-FR-01-95 [Revised August 2012]. USDA, Forest Service, State, and Private Forestry, Northeastern Area, 11 Campus Blvd., Ste 200 Newtown Square, PA 19073

Compiled by Debra Ricigliano, Home and Garden Information Center, June 2019.

Related information

Pruning Tree and Shrub Basics

Pruning Shrubs and Hedges

Pruning Tools

How do I...

• Schedule an office visit
• Renew my tabs
• Change my address
• Purchase a copy of my driving record
• Correct my name
• Renew my license or ID
• Apply for or renew a disability parking placard
• Apply for or renew a CDL
• Order a license plate
• Order a duplicate title

The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer. 

• Google Chrome
• Microsoft Edge

Public voting begins in Michigan’s first-ever “I Voted” sticker contest

July 02, 2024

Winning designs will be available for clerks to hand out on Election Day

LANSING, Mich. – Starting today, Michigan residents can vote online to help choose the final designs for the state's official 2024 Presidential Election "I Voted" sticker. Students enrolled in Michigan schools and residents submitted their designs for the contest, launched in May by Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson .    “Thank you to all of the Michigan students and residents who created a design for our state’s first ‘I Voted’ sticker contest,” said Secretary Benson. “Every Michigan voter should walk out of the polls with pride, knowing that their voice has been heard. Now, we can share that pride in our democracy with a sticker designed by some of our state’s talented and creative artists.”    Out of more than 480 submissions, 25 semifinalists from each entry category were chosen by Michigan Collegiate Student Advisory Task Force members , who came up with the idea to host the sticker contest. Three winning designs will be selected from each separate category: elementary/middle school (grades K-8), high school (grades 9-12), and general entry (open to Michigan residents of all ages). The winning designs will be available for local clerks to order for the November election.    Finalists:    Elementary/Middle School category:

• Macie McCausland – Frost Middle School, Livonia  
• Ashley Paulson – Oxford Middle School, Oxford  
• Elizabeth Delano – Oxford Middle School, Oxford  
• Janyne Hynous – Brownell Middle School, Grosse Pointe  
• Gabby Warner – Rockford   
• Layla Azure – Frost Middle School, Livonia   
• Avery Kahkonen – Arvon Township School, L’Anse  
• Haden Burrell – Hesperia Community Schools, Hesperia  
• Willa Worden – Oxford Middle School, Oxford   
• Katelyn Stouffer-Hopkins – Lansing  
• Riley Chevalier – Michigan International Prep School, Clark Lake  
• Mikayla Yeaw – Wyoming  
• Wayne Freeman – Au Gres-Sims School District, Au Gres  
• Sophie Hudson – Southfield   
• Hailey Hue – East Rockford Middle School, Rockford   
• Ryan Topham – St. Thomas Aquinas Parish School, East Lansing  
• Olivia Harrison – Frost Middle School, Livonia  
• Jiyun Byun – Clague Middle School, Ann Arbor  
• Roman Salazar – Forsythe Middle School, Ann Arbor  
• Madeline Lee – Grissom Middle School, Sterling Heights  
• Alisa Mui – Frost Middle School, Livonia  
• Annalyse Wallace – Taylor  
• Sandy McDonough – Oxford Middle School, Oxford  
• Araminta Widby – Arvon Township School, Skanee  
• Zoie Brake – Frost Middle School, Livonia   

High School category: 

• Graci Gartland – Gladstone High School, Gladstone  
• Sage Tuskan – Gladstone High School, Gladstone  
• Michelle Lekhtman – West Bloomfield High School, West Bloomfield  
• Adie Tryan – Gladstone High School, Gladstone  
• Olivia Smiertka – Holly High School, Holly  
• Lucas Barker – Gull Lake Community Schools, Richland  
• Evalyna Mei – East Kentwood High School, Kentwood  
• Bryce Stewart – Almont High School, Armada  
• Abigail Jones – Almont High School, Lapeer County  
• Tasnim Rahman – Hamtramck High School, Hamtramck  
• Rylee Fraaza – Gull Lake High School, Richland  
• Idyll Fay Villarin – Woodhaven High School, Brownstown  
• Chantell Moss – Thurston High School, Redford  
• Lyric Conway – West Bloomfield High School, Holly 
• Nicholas Rodgers – Plymouth-Canton Educational Park, Canton 
• Shanon Kawata – Community High School of Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor  
• Grayson Cooksey – Onaway High School, Onaway  
• Annabella Cochrill – New Haven  
• Andrew Brasher – Alma High School, Saint Louis  
• Daniella Aldabbagh – West Bloomfield High School, West Bloomfield  
• Keara Aderman – Gladstone High School, Gladstone  
• Savannah Olesinski – Thurston High School, Redford Township  
• Kaylee Kourakis – Gull Lake High School, Augusta  
• Cameron LaVigne – Gladstone High School, Gladstone   

General Entry category:

• MaKayla Burns – Rockford  
• Naomi Barbour – Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti  
• Michael Crawford – Genesee Career Institute, Owosso  
• Sarah Pohl – Fenton  
• Lydia Ellison – Saranac  
• Janette Scott-Lucas – Kalamazoo  
• Patrick Rogers – Ada  
• Breanna Tanner – Grand Rapids  
• Jacob Adams – Ypsilanti Township 
• Hannah Howery – Grand Rapids  
• Anastasia Greer – Marquette  
• Mason Sultana – Dearborn Heights  
• Madelyn VerVaecke – Livonia  
• Christina Castilla – Lansing  
• Emily Buckley – Ann Arbor  
• Kelsey Winiarski – Livonia  
• Nicholas Conde – Northville  
• Kerri Neymeiyer – Howard City  
• Lorelei Mortimer – Northern Michigan University, Tecumseh  
• Cole Allen – Ypsilanti  
• Carissa Smith – Grandville     Voting will close at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, July 31. Voters can select their favorite three stickers in each category. Winners will be announced in August and will receive special recognition from Secretary Benson. To vote, visit the form linked here .     For more information about elections in Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/Vote . 

Media Contact:

Cheri Hardmon

Senior Press Secretary

[email protected]

Related News

Secretary benson statement on michigan senate’s vote to extend foia law to governor and legislature.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson today made the following statement regarding the Michigan Senate’s vote (SB 669 & SB 670) to expand the state’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) law to legislators and the Governor’s office:

Secretary Benson hosts youth roundtable, releases report on Michigan youth voting turnout gaps

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson hosted a Michigan youth voting roundtable in Detroit today and released a new report identifying two significant voter turnout gaps among young voters in the last two elections – a gap between the number of young people who were active registered voters and those who cast a ballot; and a gap in election participation between young people with college experience and those with no college experience.

Chesterfield Township Secretary of State office closed June 24-28 during move to new location nearby

The Secretary of State office at 51305 Gratiot Ave. in Chesterfield Township will permanently close at 5 p.m. Friday, June 21, as it moves to a new location across the street.

Over 350 Michiganders receive expert advice on restoring their driver’s license at Detroit Road to Restoration clinic

 Today, over 350 people attended a free Road to Restoration clinic in Southwest Detroit, run by Michigan Department of State (MDOS) and partners, to learn the steps to have their driving privileges restored.

Secretary Benson and local leaders launch newest Secretary of State mobile office serving the Upper Peninsula

Today, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson celebrated the official launch of Michigan’s newest mobile Secretary of State office at a ribbon-cutting ceremony in downtown Marquette.

Secretary Benson statement on Attorney General's formal opinion on implementation of personal financial disclosure requirements

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson today made the following statement regarding the Attorney General’s release of a formal opinion on the Department of State’s implementation of personal financial disclosure requirements under Proposal 2022-1

Michigan Department of State, partners serve over 250 participants at Flint Road to Restoration clinic

 Today, over 250 participants at the Flint Road to Restoration clinic, hosted by Michigan Department of State (MDOS) and community partners, learned the steps they need to take to restore their driving privileges.

Board of State Canvassers to meet June 3

The Board of State Canvassers will meet at 1:30 p.m. on June 3

Board of State Canvassers to meet May 31