Chomukuru hachikumbirwi

Vanhu vakuru vanotenderwa kushandisa zvinhu zvavo nenzira dzavanoona dzakakodzera.

What belongs to an elder should not be asked for.

Elders or leaders may use their discretion in utilizing their property.

The karanga culture is filled with aspects of respect for leaders and elders (the term mukuru can apply to both). While this belief is borne of the fact that these people have the experience and wisdom to act in a just, fair and moral manner, the culture is not blind to fact that such persons also must meet the requisite levels of responsible and virtuous behavior to warrant such respect. Hence this proverb assumes that both sides have adhered to these tenets and as such one must then not get into the habit of always asking someone with the wisdom and experience to utilize their resources in a just and fair manner. Due to this high standing, elders and leaders are given the benefit of the doubt in using their discretion to use their possessions as opposed to young people and followers who may require a lot more advice.

The proverb is used to discourage people from asking too many favors from the elders or leaders as these elders or leaders are expected to have the experience and wisdom to know how to utilize resources effectively. It can also be used advise proper channeling of requests.