KiUbuntu
(Erroneously Known as KiSwahili)

KiUbuntu, a language with deep historical roots, is often mistakenly referred to as KiSwahili. The term "KiSwahili" misrepresents the true origins and cultural significance of the language. The prefix "ki" in KiUbuntu means "language of," and thus "KiSwahili" inaccurately implies it is the language of the Swahili people. In reality, KiUbuntu was developed long before the emergence of the Swahili people, who are descendants of Arab exploiters that invaded and colonized the East African coastal region.

Origins of KiUbuntu

KiUbuntu was created by various Bantu-speaking nations who came together in the Eastern coastal region of Nsi ya Ubuntu (Africa). This collaborative effort among different Bantu groups predated Arab involvement in the region. The language served as a means of communication and unity among these diverse groups, facilitating trade, cultural exchange, and social cohesion.

The Arab Influence

The invasion of the East African coast of Nsi ya Ubuntu by Arabs brought drastic changes, including the establishment of networks to trade in the enslavement of WanaUbuntu and the replacement of African Spirituality by Islam. The Swahili people, who emerged from the forced relations between Arab invaders and local Bantu nations, adopted many aspects of Arab culture and language due to the patriarchal nature of Arab culture and Islam. Consequently, the KiUbuntu language was infected by Arabic. We call it an infection as opposed to influence, because it came about through maafa and not a mutually beneficial and agreed upon process.

Reclaiming KiUbuntu

Historical evidence shows that KiUbuntu existed long before the Arab invasions and the subsequent formation of the Swahili identity. Attributing the language to the Swahili people is therefore erroneous. Recognizing this, contemporary efforts focus on reclaiming KiUbuntu as the true language of unity among the Ubuntu (African) nations. By restoring KiUbuntu to its rightful place, we honor our heritage and strengthen the bonds between all Ubuntu-speaking communities.

The Role of Mbôngi ya Ubuntu

Mbôngi ya Ubuntu is committed to eradicating the influence of Arabic and other colonial languages, recognizing that a people cannot truly progress while using the language of their colonizers. To ensure the preservation and growth of KiUbuntu, we will diligently document its origins and teach it to as many WanaUbuntu as possible.

Additionally, we will incorporate languages from other Ubuntu speaking nations not currently represented in KiUbuntu to replace the colonial infections, thus strengthening KiUbuntu as the unifying language of Nsi ya Ubuntu.

The Way Forward for KiUbuntu

Reclaiming KiUbuntu is not merely about linguistic accuracy but about cultural and spiritual revival. It is about reconnecting with the Ubuntu Way of Being—a philosophy that emphasizes human interconnectedness, compassion, communal well-being, and defense and preservation of this Way of Being. By embracing KiUbuntu, WanaUbuntu are striving to rebuild and strengthen their cultural identity and unity, fostering a renewed sense of pride and solidarity across the global Ubuntu (African) community.