Shopping in Zulu-Speaking Markets: What to Say
By: Chimdindu Ken-Anaukwu
Picture this: You find yourself in a bustling Zulu-speaking market, surrounded by colorful stalls overflowing with fresh produce, handcrafted beadwork, and the irresistible aroma of braaied (grilled) meat. You’re ready to buy, but there’s just one problem—you have no idea what to say!
Fear not! This guide will arm you with essential Zulu phrases so you can navigate the market like a pro, bargain like a seasoned local, and maybe even get a few extra goodies thrown in for free.
1. Starting with Greetings (Because It’s Essential!)
Zulu culture places a high value on greetings. Before talking business, start with a polite hello:
Sawubona! – Hello! (To one person)
Sanibonani! – Hello! (To multiple people)
Unjani? – How are you? (To one person)
Ninjani? – How are you? (To a group)
💡 Tip: Never skip greetings—it’s like trying to enter a house without knocking!
2. Asking About Prices
Now that you’ve greeted the seller, it’s time to get to business:
Kubiza malini lokhu? – How much does this cost?
Ngicela intengo? – May I have the price?
Kungaba malini? – How much can it be? (A subtle way to ask for a discount!)
Bargaining Like a Pro
Bargaining is part of the fun! Here’s how to negotiate without offending:
Awu, kuyabiza! Ungangiphungela? – Wow, that’s expensive! Can you lower the price?
Ngicela isaphulelo? – Can I get a discount?
Angikwazi ukukhokha lokho. – I can’t pay that much.
Ngizothenga lapha uma uthengisa ngesaphulelo! – I’ll buy here if you give me a discount!
💡 Pro tip: Smile while bargaining—it works wonders!
3. Buying and Paying
Once you and the seller agree on a price, close the deal with these phrases:
Ngiyathenga. – I’m buying it.
Nansi imali. – Here is the money.
Ngabe wamukela amakhadi? – Do you accept cards?
Ngiyabonga! – Thank you!
💡 Tip: Cash is king in most markets, so carry small denominations.
4. Asking for Specific Items
Whether you’re shopping for food, clothes, or souvenirs, here’s how to ask for what you need:
Ngifuna izithelo. – I want fruits.
Ngidinga amabhodlela amanzi. – I need bottled water.
Ngicela ubhatata. – I would like sweet potatoes.
Unayo i-rooibos tea? – Do you have rooibos tea?
Ngidinga isikhwama sokuthwala. – I need a shopping bag.
💡 Fun Fact: In some Zulu markets, items don’t always have price tags—this means the art of negotiation is alive and well!
5. Leaving with a Smile
A good customer leaves on a positive note. Here’s how:
Ngiyabonga kakhulu! – Thank you very much!
Ngizobuya futhi! – I will come back again!
Hamba kahle! – Go well! (If the seller is staying)
Sala kahle! – Stay well! (If you are leaving)
Final Thoughts
Zulu markets are full of life, culture, and—if you play your cards right—great deals! With these essential phrases, you’ll not only shop confidently but also earn the respect of local vendors. Who knows? You might even score an extra mango just for speaking Zulu!
Now go forth and shop like a true inkosi (chief)! Ngikufisela inhlanhla! (I wish you luck!)