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.

African Proverbs with Wings

African proverbs reaffirming we are all miracles of this universe on the wings of love and every moment of our life is precious.



Solidarity red black green fist. Best life is precious African proverbs.

25 African proverbs to affirm that all human life is precious and is to be valued and protected on the wings of love.



Though many African common sayings and proverbs seem simple to the common person and even coarse to the wisest and noblest of educators, there is complexity in simplicity.

The basket that was used to carry a precious gift to a neighbor will bring back another gift.

Whoever counts the mistakes of a friend will never love.

If you are filled with pride then you will have no room for wisdom.

If you close your eyes to facts, you will learn through accidents.

In the moment of crisis, the wise build bridges, and the foolish build dams.


Black history wisdom fist

Knowledge without wisdom is like water in the sand.

The fool speaks, the wise man listens.

Wealth, if you use it, ends; learning, if you use it, increases.

One fly does not provide for another.

Communication does not work when two people speak at the same time.

Words are responsible for cutting down a big tree; the ax is only an instrument.

Postpone today's anger until tomorrow.

Curse has no cure.


African proverb

The mouth is responsible for discord among people.

Who dies inside has lost.

A person’s values are not nullified by passing storms.

Fear and shame are father and son.

A fine cage will not feed the bird.

One falsehood spoils a thousand truths.

There is no medicine to cure hatred.


War is fear cloaked in courage.

The wise chief does not eat from two sides.

The good-looking fruit could be rotten inside.

One should either become a pillar or lean against one.

People’s ideas helped to locate the snake. .



One cannot both feast and become rich.

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