Learn Hardcore Swahili: Hatua ni muhimu.

It means "Step is important" (or, depending on context, "Steps are important"). The sentence expresses the idea that taking action or following a procedure is important.

What does the noun hatua mean, and what role does it play in the sentence?

Hatua means "step"—it can refer to a single step or a step in a process. In this sentence, it acts as the subject, telling us what is being described.

How does the word ni function in this sentence?

Ni serves as the copula or linking verb in Swahili. It connects the subject (hatua) to the predicate adjective (muhimu), much like the English verb "is."

What does the adjective muhimu mean, and how is it used here?

Muhimu means "important." It is used as a predicate adjective following the copula ni to describe the subject (hatua). In Swahili, many adjectives like muhimu do not change form to match the noun’s class.

Do adjectives in Swahili need to agree with the noun, and does muhimu show any such change?