What is the Swahili greeting used during Kwanzaa?

The Swahili greeting used during Kwanzaa is “Habari Gani?”, meaning “What’s the news?” or, more naturally, “How are you?”

The greeting is used throughout the seven-day celebration, with the response typically naming the principle associated with that day. For example, on the first day, the response is “Umoja,” meaning unity; on the final day, it is “Imani,” meaning faith.

This question-and-response format connects everyday conversation with the Nguzo Saba, Kwanzaa’s seven principles. Rather than functioning only as a seasonal salutation, “Habari Gani?” invites participants to reflect on the value being honored that day.

It is often confused with “Jambo,” another familiar Swahili greeting, or “Asante Sana,” which means “thank you very much.” Those phrases are genuine Swahili expressions, but they are not the customary Kwanzaa greeting.