The Swahili people are known for their imagery and complexity of proverbs. These can be seen adorning kangas, the local fabric wraps worn by women throughout Tanzania and Africa more broadly. These proverbs also make a statement about some of the values that define Swahili and Tanzanian culture.
Haraka haraka haina baraka. Haste haste has no blessings.
Nyota njeema huonekana asubuhi. A beautiful star is seen in the morning.
Ndege wa mbawa moja huruka pamoja. Birds of a feather fly together.
Kupoteza njia ndio kujua njia. To get lost is to know the way.
Apandae kilele, hupiga kelele. He who climbs to the peak, makes noise.
Kuishi kwingi ni kula asali. To live long is to eat honey.
Milima haikutani, binadamu hukutana. Mountains don’t meet but people meet.
Umoja ni nguvu. Unity is strength.
Chui hakumbatiwi. A leopard isn’t embraced.
Nyumba njema si mlango. A good house isn’t judged by the door.
