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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 the Moon Came to Be African Folklore Story

Gazing up at the moon for millions of years and asking how did the moon come to be, finally the answer to this age old question is explained in the ancient African Folklore story how the moon came to be.



How the Moon Came to Be African Folklore Story


How the Moon Came to Be African Folklore Story

How the Moon Came to Be African Folklore Story

Once there were two suns and no moon. The suns are jealous of each other, and compete in tests of toughness and strength.

Finally, Sudi Sun decides to trick Rival Sun Oko, and invites him to go bathing. On the river's bank, it is agreed that Sudi go upstream and Oko downstream.

Sudi is to jump in first into the water; Rival Sun is to follow as soon as he hears the splash. But, instead of jumping into the water, Sudi throws in an enormous rock. Oko jumps in, and the stream carries away much of his strength and power.


Sudi laughs and says to Oko, "From now on your name will be Moon and you shall be king of night while I rule the day!"


Some African folk tales are real. 


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

Join The African Gourmet Newsletter

Join our African Gourmet Newsletter to get new folktales, recipes, and history every month.

Includes a light snack idea every month 🍊

African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions