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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.

A fly that does not heed advice follows the corpse to the grave

Wise is as wise does
Do not follow the wrong leader

A fly that does not heed advice follows the corpse to the grave - Igbo Proverb.

Toxic leadership; A fly that does not heed advice follows the corpse to the grave - Igbo Proverb.


Emotional health depends heavily on whose advice we choose to follow.

Toxic leadership African proverbs are common to all languages; proverbs are the daughters of daily experience. 

There is no such thing as a perfect leader or a sweet onion.

The sun rises whether the cock crows or not.

Poor leaders are like palm wine, they neither keeps secrets nor fulfills promises.

If you go through the high grass where the elephant has already gone through, you don’t get wet with dew.

Corrupt leaders do not see their faults but the fault in others.

Don't set sail on someone else’s star.

The foxy leader has a hundred proverbs; ninety-nine are mere rubbish concerning him.

To wash a donkey's tail is loss of time and soap.

The disobedient fowl obeys in a pot of soup.

The mouth is responsible for discord among people.

A thing that comes does not beat a drum.

A fly that does not heed advice follows the corpse to the grave  - Igbo Proverb


A fly that does not heed advice follows the corpse to the grave - Igbo Proverb
Wise is as wise does, do not follow the wrong leader in politics, marriage and religion, and relationships.

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

How Are You Feeling Today?

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

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Folklore Meets Science

Folklore Meets Science
African stories that explain the universe

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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African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions