Language brain--updated

Okay so my language brain has been working overtime.  The vowels in Nyanja sound just like Spanish, and I keep hearing Spanish words.  I heard the word abuela (grandmother), which means "she came" in Nyanja.  Then I heard "zapato", which, are you ready, means "shoe" in both Spanish and Nyanja.  Ooh, research project for Carolyn!!!

Also, they use English words for numbers and colors in Nyanja. Why?  I have to find out!   

Update:  what is the Njanja word for "good"?  "Buino".  Verrry interesting.