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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.

King Eagles Promise is Easily Broken African Folklore

King Eagles promise is easily broken African Folklore teaches us to think before making a promise to someone, especially to the Sparrow bird.


King Eagles promise is easily broken African Folklore teaches us to think before making a promise to someone, especially to the Sparrow bird.
Sparrow hides all his relatives in the bush at the river.

King Eagles Promise is Easily Broken African Folklore


The animals choose the powerful Eagle as their King and throw him a great feast. 

Sparrow wishes to present a gift to Eagle but, Eagle will pay him no attention unless he first drinks a huge pot of wine. If Sparrow succeeds in this, Eagle agrees to share with him his kingdom. 

Sparrow asks King Eagle that after each drink of wine he be allowed to fly to the river for a drink of water. 

Overconfident Eagle unwisely agrees to Sparrow's request.

Sparrow hides all his relatives in the bush at the river. After the first drink of wine, he flies to the river, and a relative takes his place for the second drink; another relative goes for the third drink and so on until the pot is emptied.

King Eagle is amazed little Sparrow can drink more than 100 times his weight in wine! 

Suddenly all the animals present at the feast jump up noisily, and demand Eagle keeps his promise and share his kingdom with the sparrow. 

But, Eagle refuses; the animals assemble for a great gathering, and dismiss him as King since he is no longer an honorable leader. 

No one ever discovered Sparrow as a cheater; it is said whenever there is heard a great chattering by sparrows, that King Eagle was being laughed at for his promises and wits being like a roaring great wind.



Links to more African Folklore

In everyday life African folklore teaches lessons with ancient words of wisdom.


Baboon Shepherd African Folklore

The Bird That Made Milk African Folklore

Why Some Souls Are White and Others Black

Legend of Deepest Darkest Africa

Rabbit Angered Moon African Folktale

Nkasa Tree Test for Witches

Chic African Culture and The African Gourmet=

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.

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African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions