Ghanaian Proverbs
This guest column is written by Sofanne Ravensbergen, member of the Board of the Dutch Hand in Hand Foundation and member of The Network
If you’ve ever been to Ghana, you’ve undoubtedly encountered Ghanaian proverbs, sayings, or pieces of advice. They are essentially a form of wisdom, often likened to the phrases found on small decorative tiles. The Ghanaian language, Twi, is full of them, and they are regularly used at various moments.
Often, they refer to a specific situation or are offered as well-intentioned advice.
There’s even a proverb that says: Obanyansofoo yebu no be, yennka no asem – which translates to: “You only speak in proverbs to the wise.”
It’s a shame that I don’t speak Twi myself because I’m sure there’s a whole world of wisdom I’m unaware of. Nevertheless, during my visits to Ghana, I’ve managed to collect a few of these proverbial gems. One of my favorites is: this is Ghana for you. This is said when something happens that is characteristic of Ghanaian culture, both in positive and often in negative terms.
Another one I like is: Bere te se anomaa, woankyere no na otu a, wonhu no bio – translated as: “Time is like a bird, if you don’t catch it, it will fly away and you will never see it again.”
And that’s just how it is! Time moves quickly at PCC too!
Obi nnim obrempon ahyease – “No one knows the beginning of a great man.”
It’s been six months since Baffo retired and Joe Emma, in collaboration with the Support Group, took over the leadership at PCC. Of course, this is a big change for everyone, but change also brings new energy. And that’s certainly true for Joe Emma! He started as a caregiver at PCC and now he’s the Director!
With a lot of confidence and new ideas, he began this significant task, and we have seen him grow into his role over the past few months. He carries out his duties with pride, speaks when needed, but also has fun with everyone. Even a little dance in front of his house during disco time is now part of the ‘new’ Joe Emma (see the attached photo as proof).
Under his motto: Obi nnim a, obi kyere – translated as “If someone doesn’t know something, you teach them” – he learns every day and explains everything to the Support Group and other caregivers. In addition to his learning attitude, he encourages everyone to ask questions, which is still quite a challenge, as asking questions is not typical in Ghanaian culture.
Ironically, there’s even a proverb about asking questions: Nea onnim no sua a ohue – translated as “A child who asks questions does not remain ignorant.”
We notice this challenge during the caregiver training program as well. This program, designed by our autism expert Sue Hatton, consists of three steps, broken down into various lessons. The lessons cover different topics to help them learn more about PCC and our residents. The training team invests a lot in encouraging questions.
At first, there’s some laughter, but as the steps progress, the questions slowly begin to emerge, and everyone eventually realizes that asking questions makes us wiser.
We sincerely hope that Joe Emma, the Support Group, and everyone at PCC will continue to develop in their roles. We are certainly happy with the role Joe Emma has taken on and the changes we are seeing. We wish him and the Support Group much success and wisdom, and we hope they experience great support from both Europe and Ghana.
After all, the proverb still holds true: Nsa baako nkura adesoa – “One hand cannot carry a load.”