Chomungozva chinodyiwa nowabata mwana
Food belonging to a woman who has recently given birth can only also be eaten by someone who cuddles the child.
Tsanagudzo
Munhu akasvika pane vanenge vachiita basa ravo akabatsirawo kana kuratidza rudo nehunhu anopiwawo mugove.
What the Words Say
Food belonging to a woman who has recently given birth can only also be eaten by someone who cuddles the child.
What It Means
Showing kindness blended with good manners will always be rewarded. A simpler way to put it is one good turn deserves another.
Cultural Context
The proverb borrows from the magnanimity shown to those who would be assisting a nursing mother. It is very common for a nursing mother to receive many gifts and presents of food and visitors may find that she does not finish or like all the food. She would only give some of that food to someone who relieves her by cuddling the baby temporary. It must actually be noted that it is considered natural to request to cuddle the baby temporarily when visiting a nursing mother hence there is also an expectation that one would help.
How It's Used
The proverb is meant to encourage kindness and good values. It is only when you have assisted someone that you should expect any reward. It is usually applied in a work environment or where a task is being done. It can be used to either reward someone or justify why one is not being rewarded. For more accurate application, there must be an expectation that one must assist. When used to justify not rewarding someone it is also an indictment on the lack or values or good manners.