Proverb from DR Congo

Lomongo (Mongo)

Bonenge okoikyaki la nzala, nda lisala, ntokote.

“The bonenge tree that saved you from starvation in time of famine, do not fell it when clearing your garden.”

Meaning

Do not destroy what once saved you. Ruskin: “One good turn deserves another.”

The bonenge is a large forest fruit tree. Lomongo is the language of the Mongo people of the central Congo basin.

What is a proverb? A short, well-known, and memorable saying that expresses a common truth, practical experience, or piece of advice.