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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.

Life Can Be Unfair African Proverbs

Life Can Be Unfair African Proverbs

Bad things happen to good people African Proverbs teach how to cope.

Life can be unfair African proverbs teach us we can accept things and get on with the business of living happily even though life is unfair.

Sometimes life is just unfair African Proverbs

Life Can Be Unfair African Proverbs


Hands tell the story of Africa


A story is narrated by whoever tells it first.

A rose sometimes falls to the lot of a monkey.

If the wind blows, it enters at every crevice.

 

A monkey is only sick when the trees slide.

God does not pay weekly but pays at the end.

As you began the dance, you may pay the piper.

 

Where the bee sucks honey, the spider sucks poison.

Water from far does not quench thirsty.

A child can be punished because of his father’s faults.

 

The one you eat with is the one who digs your grave.

The past can never be changed.

A monkey does not see its ass.

 

A greedy man has his eyes on his wife’s pot.

Empty fingers are not licked.

A snake lives in a hole that it can’t dig.

 

A bird doesn’t farm but still gets food.

An old rabbit is breastfed by his children.

A bad tree destroys the field.


The one you eat with is the one who digs your grave.


Links to more African Proverbs

The wrong words are remembered for life, these African proverbs teach life is unfair at times.

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

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