“Kitakuramba”-the Kenyan-born phrase managed to secure a spot among the world’s most popular words in 2023, according to Time.
The data came from a US-based publisher.
The phrase gained prominence around April 2023 when controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie used it to intimidate state law enforcers who had apprehended him.
Mackenzie faced legal troubles due to his involvement in a religious cult that resulted in the starvation deaths of hundreds of people in his church.
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He allegedly persuaded his followers to fast with the belief of meeting God, leading to their tragic deaths.
While in police custody, Mackenzie, asserting his role as God’s servant, warned the law enforcers about facing the wrath of his maker for arresting him.
‘Kitawaramba,’ made its way onto TIME’s Word of the Year list.
It held its own amidst other globally viral words like ‘rizz,’ ‘AI,’ and ‘Bwa Kale.’
This novel word, resembling a threat, quickly became a part of everyday conversations in Kenya.
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The innovative Kenyans began using it to caution friends or associates.
Advising them to steer clear of certain situations or individuals, or else, ‘Kitawaramba.’
The versatile word could be applied in all tenses—past, present, and future.
It gained popularity, especially as Kenyans started experiencing the harsh effects of President William Ruto’s policies.
With some asserting that, by electing him, ‘Kilituramba.’
