Contextual Communicative Interpretations of Selected Havu Proverbs in Idjwi Island Southkivu/DRC

This study explores how Havu proverbs connected to love, friendship, bravery, and education are understood within the cultural life of Idjwi Island in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Guided by semantic and ethnolinguistic theories, particularly those of Saussure (1916), Lyons (1977), and Yule (2010), it examines how meaning is created, shared, and interpreted in everyday Havu speech. A qualitative approach was used, involving semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and oral recordings with native speakers and cultural custodians. The data were analysed through semantic interpretation, pragmatic contextual analysis, and thematic grouping. The findings show that Havu proverbs are not simply traditional sayings but living expressions of community wisdom. Their meanings go beyond literal words and depend strongly on context, shared experiences, and cultural understanding. Proverbs about love emphasise harmony, reconciliation, and social unity, while those about friendship highlight loyalty and mutual support. Expressions on bravery present courage as responsibility, preparation, and perseverance, and educational proverbs encourage honesty, humility, and thoughtful action. Together, these proverbs help guide behaviour, strengthen relationships, and preserve cultural values. The study concludes that Havu proverbs function as meaningful tools of communication that carry both semantic depth and practical wisdom. They continue to support cultural identity and ensure the transmission of knowledge and values from one generation to another in Havu-speaking communities.