O wera walya elyi atama. (Tembo, Democratic Republic of the Congo)

Ne mange que celui qui a gouté à la fatigue du travail. (French)
Anayekula ameonja ugumu wa kazi. (Swahili)
The one who eats has tasted the hardship of labour. (English)

This proverb from the Tembo ethnic group of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) serves as a warning and reminder of the importance of hard work and the consequences of laziness. It teaches us that enjoyment comes after hard work and sacrifice. Conversely, laziness leads to social, economic, and health problems, which may cause one to become a mere beggar and a massive burden to themselves and others. For one to be alive or live decently, they must work hard; no one reaps where they do not sow, because sacrifice is satisfaction. Hoping for the best without backing that hope with action is suicidal and makes one live in a fantasy world of hopelessness. Rather than hoping for the best without genuine effort to realise that, work incredibly hard to gain much more than what you anticipate, which can only bring honour and dignity.

Seen from our present-day social perspective, we must inculcate the spirit of hard work, backed by honesty and dedication, irrespective of one's social hierarchy, class, religion, or age.  In all societies and for people of all ages, the only path to future prosperity and a meaningful life for individuals, families, and society is labour. From our leaders showing dedication in their leadership positions, to farmers toiling daily on their farms, children devoting their time and energy in the classroom, and police and law enforcement agents working tirelessly and sleeplessly day and night to keep society safe and secure, labour is the ultimate way to success and prosperity.  Labour made of doubt, sweat and hope. Hence, when we complain about hunger and deprivation, yet we are reluctant to work, we make a fool of ourselves and the essence of life, because life can only be meaningful with labour. This transformative power of hard work and dedication should inspire us all to strive for a better future.

One might question whether our leaders are instilling the right mindset in their subjects through their actions. In a society where lawlessness, corruption, nepotism, financial mismanagement, and an extravagant lifestyle, achieved through laziness, have become the norm, many may question the value of hard work, labour, and dedication. This is where the role of leaders becomes crucial. When those in power are corrupt, those who follow them often emulate their behaviour. On the other hand, when leaders set a high standard, their subjects are likely to follow suit, making the importance of leading by example undeniable.

To eat and say proudly that one has tasted the hardship of labour, we must set a standard that appreciates and values and valuate human labour, honesty, hard work and backed up with high morality, a new culture of self-sufficiency, self-fulfilment and progress is born; replace the culture of begging and dehumanisation, which is sadly becoming a challenge and the existential threat facing our various societies. By valuing human effort and integrity, we show respect and appreciation for each individual's contribution to our collective progress.

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