AFRICA

The Rich Legacy of Sierra Leonean Proverbs: Voices of Heritage

Nestled on the West African coast, Sierra Leone is a land of diverse landscapes, from the towering Loma Mountains to the serene beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. The country’s natural beauty is matched by its vibrant cultural heritage, reflected in the capital city of Freetown and the verdant expanses of the Gola Rainforest.

Sierra Leone hosts a mosaic of languages, primarily Krio, Mende, Temne, and Limba. Krio, derived from English and several African languages, serves as a lingua franca. The origins of these languages trace back to various ethnic groups with distinct histories and traditions. Mende and Temne, the largest ethnic groups, bring their unique linguistic heritage to the forefront, each language carrying centuries of stories, wisdom, and cultural practices.

Sierra Leonean Proverbs with English translations

A Glimpse into Sierra Leonean Proverbs: Humor and Insight

One particularly amusing and insightful proverb in Krio is: “Monkey nor dae lef hin black han.” Translated to English, it means “A monkey doesn’t leave behind its black hands.” This proverb highlights the idea that inherent traits or behaviors are hard to change. For example, someone who is habitually late might hear this saying as a gentle reminder that their nature is well-known to others, emphasizing the consistency of character traits.

A Unique Sierra Leonean Proverb

One of the most amusing proverbs from Sierra Leone is “Kam wata go; na tiday you sabi who na true friend.” In Krio, this translates to “Come what may; today you will know who is a true friend.” This proverb emphasizes the importance of loyalty and support during challenging times. The underlying message is that true friends reveal themselves in moments of hardship, rather than in times of plenty. It’s a humorous yet poignant reminder of the value of genuine relationships, resonating deeply within the Sierra Leonean community.

Sierra Leonean Proverbs with English translations

Iconic Proverbs from Sierra Leone and Their Meanings

Krio

• Owse we get den bebi nar di gron de full wit mess.” – Krio
  • Translation: “A house with babies has the floor full of mess.”
  • Meaning: With blessings come responsibilities and challenges.

• “Di wil nar di ose get grease.” – Krio
  • Translation: “The wheel in the house gets the grease.”
  • Meaning: Prioritize and take care of your own.

• “Di one yu yeri pan, yu bak don enta water.” – Krio
  • Translation: “The one you hear on the back has already entered the water.”
  • Meaning: This proverb highlights the inevitability of consequences for actions taken. Once something has been said or done, it cannot be undone, much like a boat that has already entered the water cannot be pulled back onto land.

• “Di yu fo stori wid di wan we sabi fɔ storri.” – Krio
  • Translation: “Tell your story to someone who knows how to tell stories.”
  • Meaning: This proverb emphasizes the importance of seeking advice and guidance from knowledgeable sources.

• “Lef boku tok, wok go bɔku.” – Krio
  • Translation: “Leave much talk, work goes much further.”
  • Meaning: Actions speak louder than words.

• “Di wata we yu de dring na from yu en bakit.” – Krio
  • Translation: “The water you drink is from your own bucket.”
  • Meaning: Depend on yourself and what you have.

• “Wan pat cook no de smell good.” – Krio
  • Translation: “One pot does not smell good.”
  • Meaning: Variety is the spice of life; different perspectives are valuable.

Everyday Conversations: Proverbs as Pillars of Communication in Sierra Leone

From the vibrant streets of Freetown to the serene countryside, these sayings reflect the resilience, humor, and values of the Sierra Leonean populace. Whether uttered in Krio, Mende, or Temne, each proverb is a testament to the enduring spirit of Sierra Leonean culture, enriching both language and life.

Embrace these sayings as a way to connect with the heart of Sierra Leone, and let them enrich your understanding of its traditions. With these insights, you carry a piece of Sierra Leone’s spirit, a reminder of the universal truths that unite us all.