Love is a prevailing theme in kanga misemo, and so, to welcome the month of love, we present a selection of love-themed misemo shared on Instagram by @thekangabook and @leonakesho.

Mpenzi nipepe
Lover, cool me down.
These words were popularised by the famous Taarab song of the same name by Omari Kopa — a tender expression of desire and emotional closeness.

Nitakuenzi mpenzi
I will honour you, my love.
A promise of devotion, respect and care.

Penzi kwetu bado liko
Our love is still here (going strong).
A joyful affirmation of enduring love.

Pendo lako nalienzi
I cherish your love.
A quiet declaration of appreciation and commitment.

Furaha ya moyo wangu
(You are) the joy of my heart.
From the longer phrase:
“Napenda kukuona mpenzi wangu ni furaha ya moyo wangu” —
I love to see you, my lover, the joy of my heart.