Ouani: The Hidden Gem of the Indian Ocean

• HelloSalam
  [sah-lam]
• GoodbyeKwaheri
  [kwa-heh-ree]
• YesEwe
  [eh-weh]
• NoHapana
  [hah-pah-nah]
• Please/You're welcomeTafadhali
  [ta-fah-tha-lee]
• Thank youAsante
  [ah-sahn-teh]
• Excuse me/SorrySamahani
  [sah-mah-hah-nee]
• How are you?U hali gani?
  [oo hah-lee gah-nee?]
• Fine. And you?Nzuri. Na wewe?
  [n-zoo-ree. nah weh-weh?]
• Do you speak English?Unasema Kiingereza?
  [oo-nah-seh-mah kee-in-geh-reh-zah?]
• I don't understandSielewi
  [see-eh-leh-wee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNingependa kuona menyu, tafadhali
  [ning-eh-pen-dah koo-oh-nah men-yoo, tah-fah-tha-lee]
• I don't eat meatSi kula nyama
  [see koo-lah nyah-mah]
• Cheers!Mambo!
  [mahm-boh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNingependa kulipa, tafadhali
  [ning-eh-pen-dah koo-lee-pah, tah-fah-tha-lee]

• Help!Msaada!
  [msah-ah-dah]
• Go away!Nenda zako!
  [nen-dah zah-koh]
• Call the Police!Piga simu polisi!
  [pee-gah see-moo poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Piga simu daktari!
  [pee-gah see-moo dahk-tah-ree]
• I'm lostNimepotea
  [nee-meh-poh-teh-ah]
• I'm illNinaumwa
  [nee-nah-oom-wah]

• I'd like to buy...Ningependa kununua...
  [ning-eh-pen-dah koo-noo-noo-ah]
• I'm just lookingNatazama tu
  [nah-tah-zah-mah too]
• How much is it?Ni bei gani?
  [nee bay gah-nee?]
• That's too expensiveHiyo ni ghali sana
  [hee-yoh nee gah-lee sah-nah]
• Can you lower the price?Unaweza kupunguza bei?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-poon-goo-zah bay?]

• What time is it?Saa ngapi?
  [sah-ah ngah-pee?]
• It's one o'clockNi saa moja
  [nee sah-ah moh-jah]
• Half past (10)Nusu ya kumi
  [noo-soo yah koo-mee]
• MorningAsubuhi
  [ah-sooh-boo-hee]
• AfternoonMchana
  [m-chah-nah]
• EveningJioni
  [joh-nee]
• YesterdayJana
  [jah-nah]
• TodayLeo
  [leh-oh]
• TomorrowKesho
  [keh-shoh]
• 1Moja
  [moh-jah]
• 2Mbili
  [m-bee-lee]
• 3Tatu
  [tah-too]
• 4Nne
  [n-neh]
• 5Tano
  [tah-noh]
• 6Sita
  [see-tah]
• 7Saba
  [sah-bah]
• 8Nane
  [nah-neh]
• 9Tisa
  [tee-sah]
• 10Kumi
  [koo-mee]

• Where's a/the...?Iko wapi...?
  [ee-koh wah-pee]
• What's the address?Anwani ni gani?
  [ah-nwah-nee nee gah-nee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Unaweza kunionyesha (kwenye ramani)?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-nee-oh-nyeh-shah kweh-neh rah-mah-nee]
• When's the next (bus)?Basi lijalo ni saa ngapi?
  [bah-see lee-jah-loh nee sah-ah ngah-pee]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (kwenda ...)
  [tee-keh-tee kwen-dah]

Ouani, located on the island of Anjouan in the Comoros, has a rich history that dates back to early African settlers. These early inhabitants were part of the Swahili culture, which influenced the architectural styles, social structures, and customs in Ouani. The town was a hub for local trade and had a vibrant community life centered around its natural harbor and fertile lands.

In the 10th century, Arab traders began to frequent the Comoros, including Ouani. They introduced Islam, which slowly became the dominant religion in the region. The blending of Arab and indigenous cultures can be seen in the town's architecture, language, and religious practices. Mosques became central to community life, and Islamic traditions were woven into the local customs.

During the Age of Exploration in the 16th century, Portuguese explorers arrived in the Comoros, including Ouani. They were followed by other European powers, such as the French and the British. While the Portuguese did not establish permanent settlements, their presence marked the beginning of European interest in the region. This period saw an increase in maritime activity and the introduction of new goods and ideas.

Ouani, like the rest of the Comoros, came under French colonial rule in the 19th century. The French influence brought significant changes to the town's infrastructure, economy, and social hierarchy. French became the language of administration and education, and the local economy was oriented towards the production of cash crops such as vanilla and cloves. The colonial period also saw the construction of new buildings and the introduction of European architectural styles.

The mid-20th century was a time of political awakening and struggle for independence in Ouani and the broader Comoros. Nationalist movements gained momentum, advocating for self-determination and an end to colonial rule. In 1975, the Comoros gained independence from France, and Ouani became part of the newly formed nation. This period was marked by political turmoil and efforts to establish a stable government.

Today, Ouani is a vibrant town that reflects its rich historical tapestry. The cultural heritage of the town is evident in its traditional music, dance, and festivals. The local economy is supported by agriculture, fishing, and increasingly, tourism. Visitors to Ouani can explore its historical sites, enjoy its natural beauty, and experience the warm hospitality of its residents.

Ouani is located on the island of Anjouan in the Comoros archipelago. The main gateway to Comoros is Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH) on the island of Grande Comore. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Ouani Airport (AJN) on Anjouan. Alternatively, there are ferry services available between Grande Comore and Anjouan, though they can be less reliable and subject to weather conditions.

Ouani is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis and shared taxis (locally called 'bush taxis') are available. Car rentals are not common, but you can hire a driver. Public transport is limited, so planning your trips in advance is advisable. Motorbikes are another popular mode of transportation among locals.

The official currency in Comoros is the Comorian Franc (KMF). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is essential to carry cash. ATMs are available but can be unreliable, so it's advisable to withdraw sufficient funds when you find a working machine. U.S. dollars and Euros are sometimes accepted in larger establishments but always confirm beforehand.

Ouani is generally a safe destination, but standard safety precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious in less populated areas. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 17 for police assistance and 18 for medical emergencies. The local hospital in Ouani can handle basic medical needs, but for more serious issues, you may need to be transferred to the capital, Moroni. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to older passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A smile and a polite greeting in French or Swahili will be appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Ouani like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Comorian goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the local beaches, which are less crowded and offer a more authentic experience. Try to learn a few phrases in French or Swahili, as it will make interactions smoother and more enjoyable.