Two popular Swahili phrases, “kitu kidogo” and “panya route,” have been officially added to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED).

This move not only highlights the global influence of Swahili, a language spoken by millions across East Africa, but also reflects the rich and evolving nature of Kenyan vernacular.

The Evolution of “Kitu Kidogo” and “Panya Route”

“Kitu kidogo,” a phrase that directly translates to “something small,” is often used in Kenyan society to refer to a bribe or a small token of appreciation.

This term has deep roots in Kenya’s socio-political landscape, where it has become synonymous with the culture of corruption and the expectation of informal payments to grease the wheels of bureaucracy.

The phrase is frequently used in casual conversations, news reports, and even in literature, symbolizing the subtle yet pervasive nature of graft in the country.

On the other hand, “panya route,” literally meaning “rat route,” is a term used to describe unofficial or illegal shortcuts, particularly in evading taxes or border controls.

The phrase is a vivid metaphor, painting a picture of a rodent’s sly and secretive movement through narrow, hidden paths.

In Kenyan slang, it has come to represent the ingenuity and resourcefulness of people navigating complex systems, often in ways that skirt the law.

A Reflection of Kenyan Reality

The inclusion of these phrases in the OED underscores the global recognition of Kenya’s unique linguistic expressions, which are deeply intertwined with the country’s socio-economic realities.

“Kitu kidogo” speaks to the challenges of corruption that many Kenyans face in their daily lives, while “panya route” highlights the creative, sometimes illicit, ways individuals find to survive and thrive in a tough economic environment.

Both phrases offer a glimpse into the everyday experiences of Kenyans, capturing the intersection of language, culture, and society.

Their adoption into the OED marks a milestone in the global acknowledgment of Kenyan colloquialisms, which have been shaped by historical, political, and social factors.

The Process of Inclusion

The Oxford English Dictionary is widely regarded as the authoritative record of the English language.

Its editors select new words and phrases based on widespread and sustained use across various contexts.

The inclusion of “kitu kidogo” and “panya route” follows a rigorous process of documentation and analysis, reflecting the growing influence of African languages in global English.

Other new key sheng’ phrase include Rolex and Bantu knots. The dictionary describes a panya route as a hidden or alternative path especially for smuggling.

Kitu kidogo is described as a small bribe or token given for a favour.

Tye term Rolex from Uganda has been used to refer to an omelette and vegetable wrapped in chapati, with a playful nod to ‘rolled eggs’.

The Oxford English Dictionary in July 2022, added words like “mpango wa kando , chapo, uhuru, githeri, chang’aa, busaa, come-we-stay, buibui ,sheng’, isukuti, mandazi and mabati.

Swahili, in particular, has seen an increase in global visibility, with phrases like “hakuna matata” and “safari” already entrenched in everyday English.

The addition of “kitu kidogo” and “panya route” adds to this list, showcasing the dynamic nature of language as it evolves to incorporate expressions from diverse cultures.