Events
Sema Jambo Awards … celebrating the essence of business and culture across our rich and diverse communities….. World Kiswahili Day by MTM London
Tuesday, July 7 to Sunday, July 12, 2026...
Thinking and Living in Swahili
World Kiswahili Day
Annual Conference
10th of July 2026
Mayfair Suite, London Marriott Hotel,
Grosvenor Square, London, W1K 6JP
Or Online
PROGRAMME
9:15-9:45 Welcome tea and coffee
9:45-10:00 Welcome words from organisers
10:00-10:30 Introductory Keynote
by His Excellency the High Commissioner of Tanzania Mbelwa Kairuki
10:30-11:00 Translation Workshop
by Dr Ida Hadjivayanis (SOAS)
11:00-11:15 Break
11:15-11:45 History of Swahili
by Prof Lutz Marten (SOAS)
11:45-12:15 Dialectal variation in Swahili
by Prof Hannah Gibson (University of Essex)
12:15-12:45 Thinking in Swahili
by Dr Alena Rettova (University of Bayreuth) - online
12:45-13:45 Lunch
13:45-14:30 Roundtable: Arts and Knowledge production in Swahili
With Ally Mugenzi, Shisia Wasilwa and Nassir Mohammed Abdalla
14:30-14:45 Break
14:45-15:45 “What does Swahili mean to you ?”Living and Thinking in Swahili artistic workshop
by Dr Orane Touzet (University of Bath) and Anthony Kalume (University
15:45-16:00 Break
16:00-17:00 Swahili Language Taster Lesson
by Anthony Kalume
CONFERENCE RATIONAL
This event, “Thinking and Living in Swahili” explores and reflects on the richness and the specificity of the Swahili language and cultures.
We celebrate the diversity of the language and its expressions as well as the links it provides between cultures and people throughout East, Central, Southern Africa and the world.
We showcase the production of knowledge and arts in and on Swahili through roundtables, workshops and talks by academic experts and cultural practitioners.
We invite reflection on Swahili language through linguistic, philosophical, historical, geopolitical lenses to shed light on the way it thinks, frames and shapes visions of the world, artistic and anthropological practices, understanding and expression of daily realities and creation of relationships with the human and the non-human.
We provide a platform for discussion and networking between academics, cultural practitioners and the general public who work with, on and in Swahili.
Why ?
This conference aims at bridging the gap between academics, cultural practitioners, policy makers, politicians and the general public who work with and in Swahili as well as on and in the diversity of the cultures expressed through it.
Who is it for ?
It brings together experts and the general public: Swahili speakers but also people of Swahili heritage who want to know more about their roots, as well as those of any cultural background who are curious of Swahili language and cultures.
Where and When ?
On Friday the 10th of July from 9:15am in Mayfair suite, London Marriott Hotel, Grosvenor Square, London, W1K 6JP
Online, for link fill out registration form below or email oot27@bath.ac.uk
Practicals
Free registration on this link Conference Registration Form or email Dr Orane Touzet on oot27@bath.ac.uk
Refreshments will be served
Sema Jambo Swahili Gala Evening London 2026 July 11
Join us for an exquisite evening celebrating the richness of Swahili culture at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square.
Prepare to be captivated by stunning fashion, mesmerising music, captivating art, and the aroma of exquisite culinary delights.
HEADLINER- ISKU FASHIONISTA – A First of Its Kind
A bold and inclusive runway celebrating the beauty of Khanga, Kikoy & Kitenge from East Africa, Central, Southern Africa, Oman & the Comoro Islands.
Presented by Faduma Clothing – Champions Adaptive wear, this showcase brings fashion, culture, and inclusivity together on one iconic stage.
This is more than a fashion show — it’s a celebration of identity, culture, and representation. It’s about time we support people with different abilities.
Make Saturday, July 11th – Your Day To Celebrate Beautiful Swahili!
Buy Tickets: +447852100879
Online: https://semajambo.co.uk/shop
Sema Jambo Presents
INTERNATIONAL EXPO – SOKONI LONDON
London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square
Saturday 11th July
Expo Open: 12 PM – 6 PM
Situated in the heart of the prestigious Mayfair Quarter, next to Oxford Street.
Calling Londoners & Beyond!
Join Sema Jambo for an exciting celebration of trade, culture, investment, fashion, tourism, food, music, and global networking at the vibrant International Expo – SOKONI LONDON.
Experience a dynamic showcase bringing together businesses, creatives, entrepreneurs, community organisations, and exhibitors from across the Swahili-speaking world and beyond.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
All Are Welcome
NO ENTRY FEE!
Come and discover the spirit of Biashara, Culture & Connection in the heart of London.
....a glimpse- 2022-2025...
Our Inaugural Events- Celebrating World Kiswahili Day by MTM
July 7th, 2022 World Kiswahili Day Launch House of Lords London!
We commemorated the first-ever World Kiswahili Day at the iconic River Room of the House of Lords, graciously hosted by the Lord Speaker of the House of Lords, Westminster. The event, presided over by Baroness Sandip Verma, Her Excellency Asha-Rose Miringo, the High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania in the UK, as the chief guest. It was a captivating evening of networking and culture, highlighted by live performances and engaging discussions.
Renowned Swahili author, broadcaster, and translator, Ali Attas, delivered a compelling keynote address, while the legendary Rahi Bains of Kenyan-Indian origin captivated the audience with his rendition of "Jambo Bwana."
Celebrating World Kiswahili Day 2023.
July 6th 2023 World Kiswahili Day Celebration
Returning to the esteemed River Room, this event was hosted by the Rt. Hon. Lord Boateng, with H.E. the High Commissioner of Kenya, Manoah Esipisu, as the chief guest. The evening showcased a vibrant cultural celebration, with live performances by young taarab maestro Brother Nassir from Mombasa, Kenya, and the talented Namite Selvaggi of Italian and Tanzanian heritage.
It was a gathering of the East & Central African diaspora, celebrating the richness of Swahili culture and heritage.
July 7th, 2023 Launch of the SJA Awards - World Kiswahili Day!
At the grand Westminster Central Hall, guests from across the UK, Europe, Kenya, and Tanzania gathered for the launch of the SJA Awards at the World Kiswahili Day Glittering Gala Dinner.
The event was graced by the presence of the High Sheriff of Wiltshire and esteemed representatives from the High Commissions of Seychelles, Burundi, Kenya, and Tanzania.
The evening was a spectacular showcase of inclusion, diversity, and cultural heritage, featuring captivating performances by Segatastic Fusion Dancers, Brother Nassir, and Kuklee Ali. The ambiance was enhanced by the exquisite Swahili-themed decor, courtesy of Huris Collection and Lamu, while chef JOHNSON of Westminster Central Hall delighted guests with authentic Swahili cuisine.
Each guest received a beautiful sustainable Swahili shopping bag made from Kitenge and Kisutu material, adding to the memorable experience.
Join us in celebrating World Kiswahili Day, an event that promotes unity, diversity, and the rich cultural heritage of Swahili-speaking people worldwide.