Hapana mhou inokumira mhuru isiri yayo

Munhu wese anoziva mhuri nedzinza rake

The cow never lows for the calf that is not hers.

Everyone knows their kith and kin

Using the imagery of cattle, our ancestors observed that no matter the similarity of colour, age or looks, the cow never called out to a calf that was not hers. With this example they sort to teach us that everyone knows their kin. It is also worth noting that it is the cow and not the bull that is used in this proverb hence similarly it is your mother who can never be mistaken of your kinship.

The proverb is used to reference lineage and kinship. It is particularly useful when a child has forsaken their family or kinsmen, as a reminder that such people would not call upon them if they were not kinsmen. The calls of a parent are considered very important in Shona culture.