The Tswana people, found mainly in Botswana and South Africa, are known for their deep wisdom and strong sense of community. Like many African tribes, the Tswana express their values through proverbs — short sayings that teach life lessons about respect, patience, hard work, and unity. Here are 15 Tswana proverbs and their meanings that will inspire you to live better, think deeper, and act wiser.
Table of Contents
Key Summary
The Tswana proverbs remind us of three core truths:
- We need one another to survive and grow.
- Wisdom often hides in simple words.
- The values of love, unity, and humility never grow old.
15 Tswana Proverbs That Teach Life Lessons
1. “Motho ke motho ka batho.”
Meaning: A person is a person through other people.
Lesson: We rise by lifting others. No one succeeds alone — community matters.
2. “Ngwana yo o sa leleng o swela tharing.”
Meaning: A child who does not cry dies in the sling.
Lesson: If you don’t speak up or ask for help, no one will know your pain.
3. “Metsi ga a na ngwaga.”
Meaning: Water has no age.
Lesson: Wisdom and help can come from anyone, regardless of age or status.
4. “Mabogo dinku a thebana.”
Meaning: The hands of sheep help each other.
Lesson: Help others and they’ll help you — teamwork makes life easier.
5. “Ngwana yo o ratwang ke kgosi o jewa ke nare.”
Meaning: The chief’s favorite child gets eaten by the buffalo.
Lesson: Favoritism can bring danger; too much attention attracts envy or harm.
6. “Monyenye ga o ele.”
Meaning: A little bird does not fall.
Lesson: Don’t underestimate small beginnings — consistency matters more than size.
7. “Tlhogo ya ngaka ga e na moriri.”
Meaning: A doctor’s head has no hair.
Lesson: Sometimes, those who help others may appear lacking — wisdom isn’t always visible.
8. “Tau tsa hloka seboka di sireletsa ngwana.”
Meaning: Lions without unity cannot protect their cubs.
Lesson: Division weakens us; unity gives strength.
9. “Lerato le fedisa bogale.”
Meaning: Love ends anger.
Lesson: Love, forgiveness, and understanding can calm any storm.
10. “Motho wa tlhoka lore o swela kgosing.”
Meaning: He who lacks advice perishes at the chief’s court.
Lesson: Always seek guidance before making big decisions.
11. “Motlhala wa phala o bua le phala.”
Meaning: The spoor of an antelope speaks to another antelope.
Lesson: People understand those who share their experiences; wisdom connects the like-minded.
12. “Le ojwa le sa le metsi.”
Meaning: You bend a stick while it’s still wet.
Lesson: Teach and correct people (especially children) early in life.
13. “Mokoko o tlhoka molomo o a swa.”
Meaning: The cock without a mouth dies.
Lesson: Speak up — silence can cost you opportunities or even your life.
14. “Moeng goroga re je.”
Meaning: Visitor, come, let’s eat.
Lesson: Hospitality is part of humanity — kindness opens doors.
15. “Kgosi ke kgosi ka batho.”
Meaning: A chief is a chief through his people.
Lesson: True leadership is about serving and empowering others.
Bottom Line
Tswana proverbs carry the heartbeat of African wisdom — they remind us that character is wealth, humility is power, and togetherness is strength.