Kisii is a town in South Western Kenya.
It is the main urban and commercial center in the Gusii Highlands and the South Nyanza region.
The town is mostly inhabited by the Kisii tribe.
Many visitors in the town feel a little bit odd when residents talk to them in Gusii yet they cannot understand a single Gusii word hence there is need to know simple common Gusii words mostly used in the town just to make sure you blend in and not feel left out.
Here are the simple Gusii words you should be familiar with when visiting the town.
1. Bwakire
This simply means Good morning. When someone tells you 'bwakire' he/she is simply passing morning greetings.
2. Bwairire
' Bwairire' is another form of greeting in Gusii meaning Good evening.
3. Obotuko Obuya
When you want to tell someone goodnight or sleep well in Gusii you just say 'obotuko obuya'
4. Mbuya mono
It is a way of showing gratitude. ' mbuyu mono ' means thank you.
5. Ng'acheri
Ng'acheri means excuse me. If you want to tell someone to excuse you in Gusii you simply say 'ng'acheri'
6. Ng'abere
When you want to tell someone sorry in Gusii you say 'ng' abere' when someone tells you 'ng'abere' he/she is simply telling you sorry.
7. Nkonye
When someone tells you ' nkonye ' in Gusii he/she is simply telling you that he/she needs your help.
8. Tororane
'Tororane' means goodbye or see you later. When you want to see off a friend in Kisii or someone you love, just say ' 'tororane'
9. Ng'aki
It is an informal greeting mostly used by the youths in Kisii to mean hello.
10. Yaya/Eee
In Gusii ' eee ' means yes I agree while 'yaya' means no I disagree.