Typical Greetings

This unit presents typical greeting exchanges and how to introduce yourself in Zarma. Greetings follow a predictable pattern of asking about health, family, work, and fatigue, and the expected response is always positive.

Typical Greeting Exchange

Zarma	English
Mate ni kani?	Good morning, did you sleep well?
Bani samay walla	Yes, my health is good.
Mate fu?	How is your house/family?
Fu kulu samay	Everyone in my house is well.
Mate farga?	How is your tiredness?
Farga si no	I am not tired.
Mate goyo?	How is your work?
Tali kulu si	No problem.
To, kala a tonton	Okay, see you later.

Introducing Oneself

Zarma	English
Ay ma Ali	My name is Ali
Mate ni ma?	What is your name?
Ay ya Niger laabu boro no	I am Nigerien
Ay ya cawandiko no	I am a teacher
Ay ya loktoro no	I am a doctor/nurse
ni binde?	And you?

Cultural Notes

Whenever someone asks “Mate ______?” the standard response is “Bani samay walla.” The word “walla” adds emphasis. Always give positive answers to greeting questions, even if you are not feeling well — this is a matter of social convention, not dishonesty.