Swahili Word of the Month: Asante

Today I want to share something small—but deeply meaningful - that I’ve learned through my time working with the communities in Kenya. It’s a simple Swahili word: asante, which means thank you. It’s a word full of connection, kindness, and respect.

The Power of “Asante”

When a farmer says asante after receiving a new bag of maize seed, it’s not just about the gift - it’s about the hope that comes with it. It’s about knowing someone, even thousands of miles away, believes in them enough to help them plant again. When a mother says asante as she cooks maize porridge for her children, it’s not just thanks for the meal - it’s thanks for a moment of peace and fullness.

I’ve seen asante spoken with smiles, with tears, and sometimes just with a nod of the head and a hand over the heart. It’s a reminder that gratitude doesn’t need to be complicated or loud - it just needs to be sincere.

What “Asante” Means to Me

Every time I hear asante, I think about everyone who supports Seeds of Hope - people who donate, share our story, or simply believe in what we’re doing. You might not be standing in those fields or meeting the families face to face, but your kindness echoes all the way there.

In a world that can sometimes feel divided or overwhelming, one small word can remind us how connected we really are. Asante teaches me that hope grows best when it’s shared - with open hands, open hearts, and gratitude.

So, from me, from our farmers, and from every family that’s been touched by your generosity-

Asante sana (thank you very much).