Formal:
* Mwene: This is a general term for "friend" and is used for both male and female friends. It's considered more formal.
Informal:
* Mundu: This is a more casual way to say "friend" and is also used for both male and female friends.
* Muramu: This is a term specifically used for a close male friend.
* Muthuri: This is a term specifically used for a close female friend.
Other options:
* Mũthũngũ: This is a term used for a friend who is like a brother or sister.
* Ndugu: This literally means "sibling" but can be used for a close friend, especially one you've known for a long time.
It's best to choose the term that best fits the context and your relationship with the person you're referring to.