Overcoming the barriers through literal and descriptive translations: Examples of Kanga names
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Kanga names are presented using Swahili pithy sayings, riddles and proverbs. The names
communicate the culture and philosophy of the Swahili people, especially those dwelling
along the coast of the Indian Ocean, their perceptions on women and the way women view
themselves. There are attempts to translate these texts from Kiswahili into English for various
reasons. Since the texts are cultivated in the Swahili culture and philosophy, establishing
equivalents in English is a major challenge. Translators of such texts apply some techniques
to achieve their objectives. This paper appreciates the application of literal and descriptive
translations in translating these cultural expressions.