Proverb in the local language
Nyri kunto meeta baakono nya wo nyandin aah buka keno banbotii.
Wood in water
Proverb's direct translation
However long a piece of wood has spent in a river, it cannot change into a crocodile.
Proverb's meaning
One can't change their true nature.
Equivalent proverb
A leopard can't change its spots.
From: Mandinka
General comments
The Mandinka or Mandingo people live in Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Senegal and Sierra Leone.
