Proverbs are the deep wisdom carried for centuries; they are tiny capsules of truth transmitted through the ages. From one culture to another, proverbs are guiding lights that illuminate human nature, social values, and how to live well. In the beautifully diverse, highly textured lands of Africa, proverbs are not quaint sayings; they are actually the very cornerstone of our tradition passed down orally.
Let’s take you on a journey through the profound and lasting wisdom embedded in East and West African proverbs. These words of wisdom speak universal truths to the young and old, offering valuable insight into maneuvering the trials of modern life.
The Lasting Strength of African Proverbs
African proverbs have always formed a core part of African societies; remember those tales by moonlight and the excitement they bring as you learn life lessons. They were life’s textbooks used by the elderly to instill moral examples in the young, settle disputes, and also pass down tradition. Proverbs seldom work as direct commands, but they are for persuasion through allegory and metaphor, drawing the listeners to something beyond the apparent meaning. Many African adults today still live by the proverbs gently spoken by parents and grandparents. Their words have shaped our sense of right and wrong, honour and resilience. These are some of the reasons for the culture shock we experience when we get to foreign lands.
These African proverbs are not without significance; they are indicative of the rich social structures, moral thought, and theories of their origin. From the warmth of Keren to the green plains of the Serengeti, African proverbs speak to timeless human experience. Their common application, even subconsciously, without knowing the full proverbs, is the reason they are so powerful today.
Timeless Proverbs of East Africa
East Africa is home to profound cultural values. Countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Uganda, and Rwanda reflect deep respect for community, patience, nature and respect for elders. Their proverbs reflect these core values.
Swahili Proverb (Kenya, Tanzania): “Haraka haraka haina baraka.“
This means that “Haste has no blessing” or “Hurry, hurry has no reward.” In today’s fast paced world, this proverb is a strong motivator to act slowly, cautiously, and not hurry into things without proper reflection. Whether in business or personal life, this proverb encourages thoughtfulness and precision over speed and carelessness.
Amharic Proverb (Ethiopia): “dir biyabir anbessa yasir”. The proverb means that “When spider webs combine, they can trap a lion,” and best describes the strength that comes from unity. This ancient proverb honors unity, neighborhood support, and collective effort. It reminds us of how strong we are as humans and what we can accomplish together.
Luganda Proverb (Uganda): “Omuntu ng’omuntu, olw’abantu”. This means that “A person is a person because of other people.” This East African proverb emphasizes our dependency as humans, speaks to how much we need each other, and how our overall well-being is intertwined with other people around us.
Lasting West African Proverbs
Traveling to West Africa, a region of diverse cultures, vibrant histories, and deep religious heritage, we find yet another treasure trove of knowledge. Countries like Ghana, Togo, Senegal, and Ivory Coast have proverbs that are rich in lessons on fate, the depth of elders’ wisdom, the extended arm of the consequences of actions, patience, and the natural power of words.
Akan Proverb (Ghana): “Asubɔnten biara a ɔkae ne mfiase ho, ɛbɛyɛ yaa,” means that “A river that forgets its source will dry up.” This rich allegory points to the importance of holding on to one’s origin, past, and traditions. It acts as a reminder to individuals and communities to stay connected to their roots, honor their heritage, and learn from the past.
Wolof Proverb (Senegal): “Xamxam dafay weey, xaalis dày jeex,” means “Knowledge remains, money gets used up”. It emphasizes the importance of going for knowledge because it lasts longer than money. Knowledge is powerful and can get you more again and again because it can’t be used up.
Ivory Coast Proverbs: “Two flavors confuse the palate.” This West African proverbs strongly advocates focusing on one thing at a time. Trying to do many things at the same time causes confusion and disruption, and you can tell that this is true.
East and West African proverbs are an infinite treasure chest of African wisdom, offering wise words through simple phrases. Embrace these proverbs, share them and let them light your path.
