Pronunciation: [pˈaŋɡə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "panga" can be tricky as it is not a commonly used word in English. The IPA phonetic transcription for "panga" is /ˈpæŋɡə/. The first syllable "pan" is pronounced as /pæn/ with a short "a" sound, while the second syllable "ga" is pronounced as /ɡə/ with a soft "g" sound. The word "panga" refers to a long, slender fishing boat commonly used in East Africa and the Indian Ocean region.
Panga is a noun commonly used in various African countries to refer to a type of traditional canoe or small boat typically found along the coasts or on inland waterways. This term is particularly prevalent in East Africa, including countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The panga is typically a simple vessel crafted from wood, with its size and design varying depending on the region and intended use. In coastal areas, pangas often have a curved shape resembling a dugout canoe, made from a hollowed-out log or a single tree trunk. They can range in size, accommodating a few individuals or a small group, and are often propelled by paddling using wooden oars.
Pangas are commonly used for fishing, transportation, and sometimes even for recreational purposes. Given their versatility and affordability, they have become a vital means of livelihood and transportation for many coastal communities in Africa.
In recent years, the term "panga" has also gained international recognition due to its association with certain criminal activities, particularly in parts of East Africa. The weapon known as a panga is a large, machete-like knife with a broad and sharp blade. While its historical connection to the traditional boat remains obscure, the term has partly evolved to be used interchangeably to refer to this type of weapon. Despite this unfortunate association, the panga primarily continues to represent a significant cultural and economic aspect of various African communities.
The word "panga" has its origins in Swahili, which is a Bantu language widely spoken in East Africa. In Swahili, "panga" means "to cut" or "to chop". It is also used for a type of machete or large knife commonly used in Africa for cutting vegetation, but it can have different variations and uses depending on the region. The term has been adopted and incorporated into various other languages and dialects, especially those influenced by Swahili, due to its practicality and cultural significance in the region.
