The song is sung in Swahili with a distinct Rhumba melody. Here are some of the most iconic lines and their English meanings: Swahili Lyrics English Translation Sio nia yangu niwe masikini ooh, uamuzi wake mungu eeh mama It’s not my wish to be poor, it’s God’s decision dear Ufukara ooh, bibi eeh, si kilema sheri mama Poverty, my lady, is not a disability Naamini iko siku mama, nitakuwa kama wale… fulani I believe one day, I will be like them... the others Eeh dunia kigeugeu, aah leo hivi, kesho vile mama The world is changing, today this way, tomorrow that
"Ufukara Sio Kilema" (Poverty is not a disability) is a classic Swahili Rhumba hit by the legendary Kenyan-Tanzanian band . Composed by band leader John Ngereza in 1984 while the group was touring Uganda, the song is celebrated for its deep social message and intricate rhythm guitar played by Prof. Omari Shaban . Meaning and Story Ufukara Sio Kilema by Les Wanyika
Also known as "Dunia Kigeugeu" (The Changing World), the song highlights how life is unpredictable—"today this, tomorrow that". The song is sung in Swahili with a distinct Rhumba melody