Uzima

Uzima, often transliterated as uzima, is a Swahili noun meaning life, living, vitality, or health. It is a foundational concept in Swahili-speaking regions of East Africa and appears in everyday speech, literature, and media. Beyond its literal sense, uzima is frequently used metaphorically to denote well-being, flourishing, and the quality of life.

In addition to its linguistic meaning, uzima is commonly used as a given name in some Swahili-speaking communities. It also appears in the names of organizations, programs, and projects that emphasize health, community development, or human flourishing, where the term signals vitality and positive outcomes. The word can also appear in place names or local toponyms as a symbolic reflection of life and vitality valued by a community.

Linguistically, uzima is a native Swahili noun and part of the wider Bantu noun-class system that characterizes much of the language’s grammar. As a term tied to health and life, its usage spans everyday conversation, education, media, and cultural expressions throughout East Africa.

See also: Swahili language; East Africa; health and well-being.