Here's why:
* Swahili is a language: Swahili is a Bantu language spoken by millions of people across East Africa, not just in one location.
* Swahili Culture is Diverse: Swahili culture is not limited to a single city or region. It encompasses various traditions, customs, and beliefs found in different communities across East Africa.
* Historical Significance: While Malindi played a significant role in the history of Swahili culture, especially during the era of trade with the Arab world, it is not the sole representative of Swahili identity.
However, Malindi does hold special significance for Swahili culture:
* Historical Trade Center: Malindi was a major trading center where Swahili culture flourished, connecting the interior of Africa with the wider Indian Ocean world.
* Early Arabic Influences: Malindi has a rich history of Arabic influences, which contributed to the development of Swahili language and culture.
* Cultural Heritage: Malindi retains many historical and cultural sites that reflect its role in the development of Swahili civilization.
In conclusion, while Malindi is a historically important city for Swahili culture, it is not the city-state of Swahili. Swahili culture is diverse and encompasses many different communities across East Africa.