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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.

Illogical Behavior African Proverbs

African proverbs on acting irrational, unreasonable and illogical show us that illogical behavior damages the mind, body, and soul.


Illogical Behavior African Proverbs 

Illogical behavior


The way a donkey expresses gratitude is by giving someone a bunch of kicks. –African Proverb

A jealous person requires no reason to be jealous. – African Proverb

You play with fire because you have not seen it burning you. – Bemba Proverb

Denial cannot hide a fire's smoke. – Kenyan Proverb

A fool who refuses counsel will come to grief. – Zulu Proverb

When heaven is pointed out a fool only sees the tip of the finger. – Ghanaian Proverb

A thousand raps at the door, but no salute or invitation from within. - Egyptian Proverb

A man without clothes busying making himself a jacket. – African Proverb

Better to be a fat bird in the cage than a lean one in the wild. – African Proverb

He who makes a rat of himself will be eaten by the cats. - Egyptian Proverb

The unwise go into a river upon a mud boat. –African Proverb

He sits in a tub of cold water and expects it to steam. – African Proverb

Don't descend into a well with a rotten rope. – Bemba Proverb

A greedy woman snatches away a flea's hat. – Kenyan Proverb

Links to more African Proverbs
African proverbs teach the right words are vital. African proverbs bring people together, read and study more proverbs, quotes, and sayings from the African continent.

African Proverbs Are Often Difficult To Understand
Telling African Folklore Stories in East Africa
Proverbs are the official language of the African Nation
Monday Morning African Proverb Quotes
Prepare the Mind for Elevation

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