Swahili Grammar Books | International African School

The African continent has many languages. But if there is one language that a non-African, or a diasporan African, must learn, it should be Kiswahili. The language is spoken in many countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and parts of Mozambique and South Africa. It is taught in many universities in Africa, Europe, Asia, and America. Kiswahili is not only pan African, but also global.

There are many books from which one can learn Kiswahili. But I really recommend Swahili Books 1 and 2, by Odilia Anyachi Okonga. The illustrations that accompany the texts are clear, varied, and captivating. Each picture tells a visual story. The vocabulary is arranged in such a way that by the time you have gone through the two texts, you should be able to read Kiswahili texts and hold a decent conversation in Kiswahili.

Anyachi, one of the names of the author, means “eye of God”. What better way of learning Kiswahili than from one with the eye of God, who gave humans the power of speech?

Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o

( photo by Daniel Anderson)

Our Swahili Grammar Books.

Learning Swahili becomes easier with these practical, accessible books.

Whether you’re traveling to Kenya, Tanzania, or Zanzibar, studying or working in East Africa, curious about the meaning of Swahili words from The Lion King, or feel connected. Whether you have African roots or not, this is your perfect starting point for learning to speak Swahili. With clear explanations, short dialogues, and vivid examples, learning Swahili feels achievable for everyone.

Why learn Swahili?

Swahili, or Kiswahili, is one of the most widely spoken languages in Africa. You hear it every day in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Zanzibar, and in parts of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Mozambique. The Swahili language belongs to the Bantu family and is influenced by Arabic, English, and Portuguese. As a result, Swahili sounds surprisingly familiar and is easier to learn than you might expect.

Many people recognize words like Simba (lion), Asante (thank you), and Hakuna Matata (no worries). With this book, uncover the origins of these words and put them to use in your own conversations.

Who is this Swahili book for?

Students in schools who are learning Swahili as a second language.
Travelers who want to get by in hotels, at markets, or on round-trip trips.
Students and professionals who work with local communities.
Music and film lovers who want to understand Swahili in pop culture.
Anyone who wants to rediscover their cultural heritage and connect through language

What makes this book special?

You learn Swahili naturally through a method focused on real communication rather than memorizing rules. We use practical examples, short lessons, and everyday situations. After the first chapter, you can already introduce yourself, greet others, and say thank you. Every lesson includes a short exercise and a cultural note, so you not only learn words but also understand the customs and hospitality that set Swahili apart.

Travel, study, or satisfy your curiosity — this book enables you to master Swahili easily and enjoyably!

Karibu sana — welcome to the world of Swahili!