MENU
SEARCHThe Black Panther Press' underground "New Afrikan Swahili Dialect Dictionary" is a guide to words and phrases used by black gang members in prison. Break the code by learning these translated terms.
In prison, forms of black slang and African languages are used to code conversations to prevent non-black inmates and staff from understanding the communication. These languages are taught to gang members who carry these back out into the community.
They also serve as a racial recruiting tool. One of the favorite forms is the African Swahili tribal dialect.
The following is a portion of a prison-copied version of the underground publication, "New Afrikan Swahili Dialect Dictionary" from the Black Panther Party Press.
SWAHILI/ENGLISH
ASANTE/Thank You
BABU/Grandfather or Father
BASI/That's All
BIBI/Grandmother
BIKIRA/Virgin
DADA/Sister
DHANI/Think
GNYE SHUKRANI/Thankful
HAJA/Need
HATA MOJA/None
JAMAA/Family
JINA/Name
KIJANA/Youth
KITU/Thing
KUANDIKA/Write
KUENDA/Went, Go or Gone
KUJARIBU/Try
KUPUTA/Throw
KUWA/Was
LA/No
LAZIMA/Must
LINI/When
MIMI/I or Me
MJANE/Widow
MKE/Wife
MTOTO MCHANGA/Girl or Baby
MTOTO WA KIUME/Boy
MUMNE/Husband
MWALIMU/Teacher
MWANAMKE/Woman
MWANAMUME/Men
MWANA DAMU/Man
MZAZI/Mother
NANI/Who
NDUGU/Brother
NIJIA/Way
NINA/I Am
NINI/What
NJDYO/Yes
MNO/Too
SASA/Now
SI/Not
SISI/We or Us
SIYO/No
UEYE/He or She
UKE/Vagina or Womanhood
UTU/Manhood
UUME/Penis
WA/Be
WAO/Them
WAPI/Where
WAZO/Thought
WEWE/You
Related Blog Post:
In the relentless heat of summer and even early fall in some parts of the country, officers face the important task of protecting their K-9 partners while working in sweltering temperatures. Recognizing changes in a dog’s behavior is the key.
Read More →
ILEETA is a complete resource for trainers to address trainers' needs. Its mission is to enhance the skills and safety of criminal justice practitioners while fostering stronger and safer communities.
Read More →
Technologies for improving law enforcement training and training management were some of the highlights at this year's show.
Read More →
The 2024 pursuit-rated vehicles--all pickup trucks or SUVs, including two battery electric models the Chevrolet Blazer EV AWD and Ford Mustang Mach-E--were put through their paces.
Read More →
As more alternative-fuel and hybrid vehicles hit the road, police and other first responders need to understand that they are no more dangerous than conventional vehicles. However, there are certain safety considerations every cop should know.
Read More →
Garmont Tactical has found wide acceptance by military boot buyers, but now the company is trying to better respond to the needs of police officers. Many cops now are not fans of 8-inch boots, so Garmont is adapting.
Read More →
Through our magazine and website and our Police Technology eXchange event, we promise to provide you with information and access to resources to help you do your job safer and better.
Read More →
The Harris County Sheriff's Office is a model for other agencies that want to learn about crisis intervention and mental health crisis response. Sgt. Jose Gomez shares the story of their programs and provides 10 tips for mental health crisis call response
Read More →
Mike Barham, of Galco Holsters, shares five important considerations to keep in mind when you buy off-duty concealed or plain-clothes carry holsters.
Read More →
While the burden of accurately reporting use-of-force situations is on an individual deputy or officer, the person reviewing those reports shares in the responsibility of making sure the reporting is done properly, with clear details included.
Read More →