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The African Gourmet: Folktales, Cuisine & Cultural History

Explore Africa’s Heritage

Explore tales that carry Africa’s wisdom, courage, and humor. From river spirits to trickster animals, every story holds a lesson.

From hearty stews to fragrant grains, experience traditional African recipes and the history behind every dish.

Ancient African proverbs and modern interpretations — explore the wisdom passed down through generations.

Dive into Africa’s kingdoms, independence stories, and modern milestones that shape the continent today.

How to Wrap a Gele African Head Wrap Step by Step Directions

African Head Wrap How-to.

How to wrap an African head wrap step by step directions


In Africa, the head wrap worn by women of all colors, tribal and ethnic groups for special occasions, weddings, ceremonies, burials, church services, and special celebrations or for everyday wear.

There are a variety of ways to wear a head wrap scarf.

How to Wrap a Gele African Head Wrap Step by Step Directions

Wrapping a head wrap is easy, just follow the steps below. There are countless styles of African head wrapping, it may take a couple of tries but you will be an expert in no time.

How to wrap an African head wrap

1. Open the fabric, using an oblong piece of fabric at least 48 inches long and 24 inches wide works best. A large rectangular scarf also works well with this style of head wrapping.

2. Center the scarf at the nape of your neck making sure that both sides are of equal length.

How to wrap an African head wrap step by step directions

3. Bring the ends forward and twist one side of the length of the fabric, pull over and across the front of your head, tuck in the end. Repeat on the other end.

The African head wrap draws the eye up, rather than down. African women wear head wraps as a queen wears a crown. The African head wrap represents far more than a piece of fabric on the head of a female.  

African head wraps are a common site throughout Southern and Western Africa. In West Africa, Nigeria, head wraps are called gele, in Malawi Duku and in Zimbabwe dhuku. 

African head wraps are African beauty and African style setters in the history of America and Africa. 

Wrap African head wraps with confidence

How to Wrap a Gele African Head Wrap Step by Step Directions


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How Are You Feeling Today? Find an African Proverb or Story to Match Your Mood

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Type or tap a mood. Your storyteller returns a proverb, mini-folktale, recipe, cooking activity, and a cultural note.

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African Gourmet FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The African Gourmet blog about?

The African Gourmet explores African food, history, and culture through recipes, folktales, and proverbs written for curious readers worldwide.

Who writes The African Gourmet?

The blog is written and curated by Ivy, a lifelong historian and storyteller who highlights Africa’s culinary and cultural richness.

How can I find African recipes on this site?

Use the “African Recipes” category or explore posts like African Recipes for regional dishes and ingredients.

Can I share or reprint your articles?

You may share articles with attribution and a link back to The African Gourmet. Reprinting in print or commercial use requires permission.

Where can I learn more about African proverbs and folklore?

Explore our African Proverbs and African Folktales sections for timeless wisdom and stories.

African Gourmet Newsletter

Light African snack spicy popcorn

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