"The old woman looks after the child to grow its teeth, and the young one in turn looks after the old woman when she loses hers." - Akan Proverb

“The old woman looks after the child to grow its teeth, and the young one in turn looks after the old woman when she loses hers.”

- Akanfamily

Meaning

The cycle of care between generations is natural and reciprocal.

Akan extended families operate on reciprocity. Grandmothers are primary caregivers for young children, and in old age they receive care in return.

Origin

Akan

Language

Twi

“Children are the reward of life.”

Congolese

“The child you sired hasn't sired you; you are still his elder.”

Yoruba

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