Introducing Yourself in Wolof — Made Simple
By: Chimdindu Ken-Anaukwu
“Nanga def?” If that phrase sounds unfamiliar, don’t worry — you’re about to learn one of the most heartwarming ways to say hello in Wolof, one of West Africa’s most widely spoken languages. Spoken primarily in Senegal and parts of The Gambia and Mauritania, Wolof isn’t just a language — it’s a gateway to the spirit of Teranga (hospitality).
Whether you’re traveling to Dakar, connecting with friends, or just vibing with a new culture, this guide will teach you how to introduce yourself in Wolof — the easy, fun way.
👋🏽 Why Learning Basic Introductions Matters
In Wolof culture, greetings aren't just polite — they’re powerful. A simple “Hello” and “My name is…” can open doors, win respect, and show locals that you see and honor their identity.
It doesn’t take fluency to build connection. Just a few words go a long way.
🗣️ Step-by-Step: How to Introduce Yourself in Wolof
Let’s keep it simple. Here’s how to introduce yourself like a pro — even if you’ve never spoken Wolof before.
1. Start with a Greeting
There are several ways to greet someone in Wolof, but let’s stick with the most common:
“Nanga def?” – How are you?
Response: “Maangi fi rekk.” – I’m fine.
(Pronounced: nahn-gah deff? / mahn-gee fee reck)
🌟 Want to sound even friendlier? Add “Jërejëf!” (Thank you!) after your response.
2. Say Your Name
“Maa ngi tudd…” – My name is…
Example: “Maa ngi tudd Amina.” – My name is Amina.
(Pronounced: mahn-gee tood…)
You’ve already nailed 50% of your intro! 😄
3. Share Where You’re From (Optional)
“Maa ngi joge…” – I’m from…
Example: “Maa ngi joge America.” – I’m from America.
Try swapping in your hometown or country.
4. Close With Kindness
Here’s a beautiful touch to end your intro:
“Baal ma, duma Wolof bu baax.” – Forgive me, my Wolof isn’t very good.
Or simply: “Jërëjëf.” – Thank you.
Locals will smile at your effort — humility is part of the culture.
🧩 Quick Reference Table
| English | Wolof | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| How are you? | Nanga def? | nahn-gah deff? |
| I'm fine | Maangi fi rekk | mahn-gee fee reck |
| My name is... | Maa ngi tudd... | mahn-gee tood |
| I'm from... | Maa ngi joge | mahn-gee joe-geh |
| Thank you | Jërëjëf | jeh-reh-jef |
| Sorry, my Wolof isn’t good | Baal ma, duma Wolof bu baax | bahl mah, doo-mah Woh-lof boo bah |
🔄 Practice This Dialogue
👩🏽 You: Nanga def?
👨🏿 Local: Maangi fi rekk.
👩🏽 You: Maa ngi tudd [Your Name].
👨🏿 Local: Jërëjëf! Maa ngi tudd [Their Name].
👩🏽 You: Maa ngi joge [Your Country].
👨🏿 Local: Wow! Jërëjëf!
You’re already making friends. 😎
📲 Learn and Practice with NKENNE
Want to hear real native pronunciation, practice with flashcards, or take quick audio lessons? NKENNE makes it easy to learn Wolof on the go — no textbooks, no stress.
🎧 Practice with native speakers
🎮 Use Quick Match games to test your greetings
🧩 Build your Wolof vocab every day
🧠 Final Tip: Don’t Stress Perfection
Nobody expects you to speak like a griot overnight. It’s the effort that counts. Every “Nanga def?” and “Jërëjëf” you say is a step toward cultural connection.
🌟 Speak Wolof Today
Ready to say “Maa ngi tudd [Your Name]” to the world?