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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.

Keep Being The Awesome Person You Are African Elders Wise Sayings

African Elders Wise Sayings

Wise Sayings  Quotes  African Proverbs
Falata community celebrating peace at the Al Zubir Stadium in El Fasher, North Darfur
Falata community celebrating peace at the Al Zubir Stadium in El Fasher, North Darfur


Ten African Elders Wise Sayings to remind you to keep being the awesome person you are.


Each and every human being on Earth is an awesome person, but you are the most awesome one. These Ten African Elders Wise Sayings are to remind you to keep being the awesome person you are and the most awesome person your elders want you to be in this life through its ups and downs.


Ten African Elders Wise Sayings 


Ten African Elders Wise Sayings

A little axe can cut down a big tree.

If someone were to pay you ten cents for every kind word you said about people and collect five cents for every unkind word, would you be rich or poor?

Beginning is easy; continuing, hard.

A smile confuses an approaching frown.

A true soldier does not admit defeat before the battle.

God can heal a broken heart, but He has to have all the pieces.

Being good is commendable, but only when it is combined with doing good is it useful.

A decision made at night may be changed in the morning.

Don't put the key to happiness in someone else's pocket.

All the so-called secrets of success will not work unless you do.


International Day of Peace, Falata community celebrating peace at the Al Zubir Stadium in El Fasher, North Darfur
International Day of Peace, Falata community celebrating peace at the Al Zubir Stadium in El Fasher, North Darfur

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 ๐ŸŠ

African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions