This expression was actually popularised in 1994 in the animated Disney film, titled ‘The Lion King’.
The phrase ‘ Hakuna Matata’ is the Swahili language. Swahili language is acclaimed as one of the ten most widely spoken languages in the world. In fact, it is the lingua franca of twenty out of fifty-four countries in the continent of Africa. It is reported that over two million people speak Swahili.
Hakuna Matata is proudly African, and it simply means ‘no worries or trouble’. It is commonly used in Kenya, Tanzania, and Namibia as a form of pleasantries to tourists.
Just like in Nigeria, the expression ‘it is well ‘ has become a norm amongst Christians.
Hakuna Matata isn’t used in the absence of storms or troubles. It is a language of positivity used to encourage one to forge ahead. Yes, tell yourself Hakuna Matata as you face life’s troubles.
Simba, in the Lion King, was a cub when his father, the king, was killed by his own blood. He went on an exile. He was young, fearful, and vulnerable. He was crowned prince, yet he mingled among the other animals. He knew it was a question of time. The future is bright…Hakuna Matata!
If you find yourself living away from home to achieve a targeted outcome. Do so with the confidence of returning to take your place. Hakuna Matata!
The story of greatness is hardly recounted without the elements of rigour, hardship, and fear. It is part of the conquest. Therefore, do not feel rejected when passing through the crucibles. It is a process you must pass through to become.
Hakuna Matata!
There are haters and offenders positioned to frustrate your progress. They mock and yell while you work your fingers to the bones. They capitalise on your flaws and mistakes. They forget you are only human. Learn to forgive yourself when you occasionally fall. These mistakes often happen. It might be inadvertent or deliberate. No worries! Move beyond the guilt or shame. Do not allow it cripple your mobility.
A single mother who fell victim to betrayal should learn to forgive herself. Zip up, raise your child, and bounce back from the shackles.
An axiom in my extraction says, if you strive not to be ashamed and shame beckoned, leave it and strive not to die.
If you are alive, shame is time bound, and it would disappear someday. Keep living a productive life. Hakuna Matata!
Responsibility is a price to pay for greatness. No idle one can lay hold of success. Live responsibly. Have goals and work assiduously to achieve your goals. If you fail in one venture, try another and pursue it. Every great man at one point has tasted failure. The bottom line is that you continue to strive. Responsibility should drive you to achieve. Keep moving! Hakuna Matata!
What is your purpose? What are you living for? There must be something you do effortlessly. A craft, an art, or a skill you possess that gives you a sense of fulfilment. Attend to it and give it your best shot this new year. Purpose is the essence of living. Discover your purpose and be driven by it. Hakuna Matata!
Hakuna Matata to everyone who is willing to start the year with a new zest. You must have that positive energy to forge ahead. Simba in The Lion King moved ahead. Good will always overcome evil. Stay untainted while you fight the demons. Hakuna Matata!
Remember, the land may not look green at first. However, you can plant it and nurture it. Your seeds are active. Keep believing, and before long, the green plants would grow and blossom. Hakuna Matata, my folks!
Ebunoluwa Ibibo
@Golden muse
