Big worries over Swahili phrase

Angry opinion pieces are appearing in the Kenyan media over the well-known Swahili phrase ‘Hakuna Matata’. The phrase translated means ‘no worries’ and is a common expression throughout east Africa. But to the rest of the world, it's best known as a song from the Lion King – and Walt Disney registered a trademark for the phrase for its merchandise. BBC News reports that some Kenyan newspapers have accused the company of stealing from Kenyan culture by claiming ownership of the phrase. However, the trademark they're talking about is itself not new – US records show it was first filed back in 1994 coinciding with the movie's original release. The row has likely come up now as hype around the film's live action remake brews.

Full BBC News report