Ghanaian proverbs are the backbone of Ghana’s oral tradition, a living archive of ancestral wisdom passed down through generations. They reflect the values, beliefs, and worldview of Ghanaians, offering insight into morality, relationships and community life.
In our previous article, Understanding the Power of Ghanaian Storytelling, we explored how oral traditions shape identity and preserve cultural heritage.
Today, we turn our attention to proverbs in Ghana, poetic expressions that reveal the soul of their people. Whether you’re a student, a traveler, or a lover of African culture, these Ghanaian proverbs and their meaning will offer a fascinating perspective on the traditional wisdom of West Africa.
The Power of Ghanaian Proverbs in Everyday Life
Proverbs provide a fascinating entry point into linguistic and cultural nuances. Even modern slang shares a connection with traditional proverbs, as both serve as markers of identity and communication within the community. Same situation applies for expatriates trying to learn local languages. By learning and using proverbs, both locals and visitors tap into a deeper understanding of how Ghanaians express thought, emotion, and experience.
Used in conversation, music, and public discourse, Ghanaian proverbs serve many purposes—from reinforcing morals to offering humor and reflection. Elders often use them to guide behavior or diffuse conflict with grace.
Take for instance:
“Se wo were fi na wosankofa a, yenkyi”
(If you forget and you go back to retrieve it, it is not wrong).
This proverb captures the essence of the Sankofa philosophy: a call to reclaim lost heritage and learn from the past. It reminds us that seeking wisdom from the past is never a mistake.
Symbolism and Imagery in Traditional Proverbs and Their Meanings
Like many traditional proverbs and their meanings, Ghanaian sayings often take inspiration from nature, animals, and everyday life to express profound truths in simple terms.
“Obi nnim obrempon ahyease”
(No one knows the beginning of a great man.)
This teaches us not to judge people by where they come from—greatness often arises from humble beginnings.
“Nkyene koraa te kyen ohia”
(Even salt is better than poverty.)
This uses the image of salt—a basic necessity—to highlight the harshness of poverty and the value of even small comforts.
Proverbs in Ghana as Tools of Diplomacy and Wisdom
In Ghanaian culture, direct confrontation is often avoided. Instead, proverbs in Ghana serve as polite, indirect ways to express difficult truths or offer guidance.
“Abofra bo n’egya ho a, ɔnim deɛ ɔbɛka”
(A child who plays near fire knows what will burn him.)
This is a subtle warning that actions have consequences—wisdom that remains highly relevant in all aspects of life.
“Nnipa nyɛ aboa”
(A human being is not an animal.)
This reminds us of the importance of empathy and ethical behavior in how we treat others.
Ghanaian Proverbs as Intergenerational Bridges
One of the most powerful aspects of Ghanaian proverbs and their meaning is their role in bridging generations. Through storytelling and conversation, elders pass on knowledge, values, and critical thinking skills to the young.
“Dua baako nni abɔdenden”
(One tree does not make a forest.)
This proverb encourages unity and reminds us of the importance of working together for the good of the community.
Ghana Quotes and Proverbs in Modern Culture
From political speeches to highlife lyrics, Ghana quotes and proverbs continue to shape national consciousness. They serve as cultural touchstones—reminding Ghanaians of who they are, where they come from, and where they are going.
“Nyansa nni baako fo”
(Wisdom does not reside in one head.)
This is a call for collaboration, inclusivity, and humility—principles that resonate deeply in modern Ghanaian leadership.
In business and relationships:
“Aboa a ɔdɔ wo na ɔkyɛ wo nam”
(The animal that loves you shares its meat with you.)
This proverb teaches the value of loyalty and giving in all human connections.
Top 20 Ghanaian Proverbs and Their Meaning
Here is a handpicked selection of some of the most insightful Ghanaian proverbs, each followed by its meaning:
- “Anomaa entua obua da” – A bird does not chirp for nothing.
Every action has a reason. - “Wo sisa Nyame anim a, wo sisa wo ho” – If you deceive God, you deceive yourself.
Self-deception only hurts you. - “Obi nnim obrempon ahyease” – No one knows the beginning of a great man.
Judge not by appearances. - “Ɔdɔ yɛ wu” – Love is death.
True love requires sacrifice. - “Obi nnkyere abofra Nyame” – No one teaches a child who God is.
Spiritual awareness is natural. - “Sɛ wopɛ akokɔ, fɛ akokɔ” – If you want a chicken, imitate a chicken.
Align your actions with your goals. - “Dua baako nni abɔdenden” – One tree does not make a forest.
Unity brings strength. - “Abofra bo n’egya ho a, ɔnim deɛ ɔbɛka” – A child who plays near fire knows what will burn him.
Experience teaches caution. - “Nnipa nyɛ aboa” – A human being is not an animal.
Act with compassion and reason.
- “Se wo were fi na wosankofa a, yenkyi” – If you forget and you go back to retrieve it, it is not wrong.
It’s wise to reconnect with your roots. - “Aboa a ɔdɔ wo na ɔkyɛ wo nam” – The animal that loves you shares its meat with you.
True love and friendship involve generosity. - “Nyansa nni baako fo” – Wisdom does not reside in one head.
Everyone has something to contribute. - “Kwaterekwa se ɔbɛma wo ntoma, tie ne din” – A naked man promises you cloth, listen to his name.
Consider who is making the promise. - “Woforo dua pa a, na yepia wo” – It’s when you climb a good tree that people push you.
Support follows good intentions. - “Agoro beso a efiri anopa” – If a game will be good, it starts in the morning.
Good things show early signs. - “Eban ne ɛban na ɛma adwene nyansa” – It is family that teaches wisdom.
Home is the foundation of values. - “Nipa a ɔte apɔnkye ho na ɔte ne ho fɛfɛɛfɛ” – He who walks with a goat ends up smelling like a goat.
You are influenced by those around you. - “Ɛsono anomaa a ɔnnim tu a ɔkyena owu” – A bird that doesn’t learn to fly dies tomorrow.
Prepare or perish. - “Tete wo bi ka” – You have something from the past to say.
Wisdom comes from history. - “Nanka bɔne na ɛma nanka pa yɛ abɔnefo” – The bad serpent gives the good one a bad name.
One bad example can ruin the whole.
Whether passed down around the fireside or quoted in modern speeches, Ghanaian proverbs remain vital threads in the cultural fabric of the nation. Rich in imagery and meaning, these expressions continue to guide, teach, and inspire.
By reflecting on these traditional proverbs and their meanings, we gain a deeper appreciation for the philosophy, humor, and values of Ghanaian life. And as Ghana quotes remind us, true wisdom often lies not in complex theories—but in simple words, well spoken.
