Donate to Save Human History

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 to Think Like a Wise Person African Proverbs

Wise African Proverbs


Intelligence has its advantages but you can be intelligent without being wise. Wisdom goes beyond intelligence and those who think of themselves as intelligent and put down others for not being book smart are certainly not wise.


Wise men in Afataranga Benin Africa
Wise men in Afataranga Benin Africa

How to Think Like a Wise Person African Proverbs

The wise man never takes a step too long for his leg.

The opinion of the intelligent is better than the certainty of the fool.

Follow the saint no further than his doorstep.

You become wise when you begin to run out of money.

Optimism leads to riches and pessimism leads to poverty.

A man dies, but his word lives forever.

Your lips are your enemy.

If you want to eat honey, follow the bees.

If generously shared, a flea can be bitten twice.

You will die poor if you rely on relatives.

One should either become a pillar or lean against one.

A wise man plans for tomorrow, a fool plans only for today.

The patient person eats ripe fruit.

Learn politeness from the impolite.

How to Think Like a Wise Person African Proverbs​.

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.

⋯ ✦ ⋯

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