Learn Hardcore Swahili: Wao wanapenda pesa.

In Swahili, the verb changes based on the subject. Ana is used for yeye (he/she), while wana is used for wao (they). So because the subject is wao (they), the correct verb form is wanapenda.

Is there a difference between using wao and just using wana in the sentence?

Yes. Wao is the explicit subject pronoun meaning they, while wana is the subject marker that attaches to the verb. Sometimes, people omit wao and just say Wanapenda pesa, especially if the context makes it clear who they refers to. But using wao makes it very clear and explicit.

Why do we use pesa to mean money instead of another word?

In many parts of East Africa, pesa is the standard term for money. It originally comes from old coinage terms, and it’s now used more broadly in Swahili-speaking regions. Other variations might appear in slang form, but pesa is the most common and widely understood.

How can we stress that they really like money in Swahili?