25 August 2023

• The word "sheng" itself comes from the Swahili word "kushengeneza," which means "to mix" or "to create."

In the vibrant tapestry of Kenyan culture, there's a language that's as colorful as a kikoi and as zesty as pilau. Welcome to the world of Sheng – where words don't just speak, they dance!

Sheng began in the bustling streets of Nairobi, where languages collided and cultures mingled giving birth to new words born faster than matatus weave through traffic. The language is, a vibrant blend of Swahili, English, and various local languages, that emerged as the ultimate language hack for Nairobians to communicate across diverse backgrounds.

The word "sheng" itself comes from the Swahili word "kushengeneza," which means "to mix" or "to create." And that's exactly what Sheng does, it mixes, remixes, and creates new words and phrases that reflect the vibrant cultural landscape of Kenya.

It was initially used as a secret code among youth and urban dwellers to communicate freely without being understood by elders or outsiders. Over time, as its popularity grew, Sheng transcended its secret code status and became a form of identity and expression for young people.

Sheng didn't just stop at street corners, it waltzed right into the entertainment world. From hit songs to movies, and social media lingo, the language's influence is undeniable.

In recent years, Sheng has gained recognition beyond its street origins. It's no longer limited to informal conversations but is now used in more formal settings, including media, literature, and education. It provides a sense of belonging and unity among those who use it, creating a linguistic community that transcends linguistic and ethnic boundaries.

With each passing year, Sheng incorporates new words, expressions, and influences from popular culture, technology, and contemporary social issues.

Below is a list of a few sheng words to get you started in case you're just discovering the language;

Mboka/wira : Work/job, someone's source of livelihood.

Kibandaski: A local eating joint. It's where you head when you're on a budget but need your taste buds to do the salsa.

Mpoa/Mzuri: Someone's romantic partner, could be either boyfriend/girlfriend

Chocha: When something is too good to be true, it's chocha! Something exaggerated

Sponyo: Hold your horses, we're not talking about a corporate sponsor. In Sheng, it's all about a well-to-do, older romantic partner who's splashing cash like Nairobi rains.

In a world where language is a kaleidoscope of expressions, Sheng stands tall as the king of creativity. From everyday conversations to pop culture references, it's the secret handshake that unites Kenyan youth with a dose of humor and style.