Yatsika dope yanwa
When an animal has mud at its hooves, it is considered to have drunk water at the pool.
Tsanagudzo
Kana munhu anga aripo panga pachiitwa chimwe chinhu zvinoreva kuti akaitawo zvanga zvichiitwa ipapo.
What the Words Say
When an animal has mud at its hooves, it is considered to have drunk water at the pool.
What It Means
One who was present is considered to have participated. It can also mean that part of the process is tantamount to the whole process.
Cultural Context
The proverb is based on the observation of animals when they go to the drinking pools. While not always true, it is considered conclusive that an animal with mud at its hooves must have stepped into mud at a drinking pool and hence must have drunk water.
How It's Used
The simplistic application of this proverb is to someone who did part of a process or was part of group and then begins to deny that they can be held responsible or that they partook of the process. Inversely it can be used to offer advice to one to not take part in any part of a process or not to join a group if they are not prepared to be recognized with the outcomes. In one way it rebuts denial and enforces accountability while in another it is a deterrent against people who are unsure of taking part in process or joining a group.