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About the Author

Ivy is the researcher and writer behind The African Gourmet, blending African food, history, and cultural storytelling. Her work is cited by universities, Wikipedia, major news outlets, and global food writers.

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From political insights through food to traditional wisdom and modern solutions - explore Africa's depth.

Inner Being African Proverbs

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📁 Affirmations 📁 African proverbs 📁 Spirituality

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Who sits in a well to observe the sky does not see very much - Inner Being African Proverb

Who sits in a well to observe the sky does not see very much - Inner Being African Proverb

The energetic force of the inner self uses hurts, pains and betrayals to the inner child as food to grow and form a healthy adult character. Inner self is the true internal identity tuned into the emotional and spiritual essential nature of one's self able to forge a whole healthy being from damaged parts. 

Inner Being African Proverb - Who knows the truth is not equal to those who live it.


Inner Being African Proverbs.

Who knows the truth is not equal to those who live it.

Though the left hand conquers the right no advantage is gained.

When fingers start scratching the thumb follows along.

When a large vessel has opened a way it is easy for a small one to follow.

What the ear hears is not like what the eye sees.

The light of all the stars is not equal to that of the moon.

Those who know when they have enough are rich.

Though the left hand conquers the right no advantage is gained.


The inner self is connected to the undivided individual aware of the character of the irrational and rational mind, merging the two into a focused, confident, forward-looking entity.

Inner Being African Proverbs.

A fall does not hurt those who fly low.

Those who reap maize sow maize and beans who sow beans.

There is no elbow that bends outwards.

Those nearest the fire are soonest warmed.

Who sits in a well to observe the sky does not see very much.

The loftiest towers rise from the ground.

One foot cannot stand on two boats.

Those nearest the fire are soonest warmed.

The deepest aspects of human nature if the inner self is not embraced, cared for and meaningful time spent with causes the outer public self to become messy, muddy and disorderly. African proverbs teach that if the inner self is neglected, the outer self creates a chaotic inner and outer world for the individual and the community as a whole.

Inner Being African Proverbs.

Who stands still in mud sinks in it.

When the rain stops, the garden becomes dry.

A single scrap of spoiled meat taints the whole meal.

Vice is an outward act whose payment is misery.

Those who live near water know the nature of stormy seas.

An undisciplined wind does not continue for long nor a deluge of rain outlast the day.


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Chic African Culture and The African Gourmet=
The African Gourmet explores how African food, history, and science intertwine. Here, a plant is a healer, a story is a map, and the kitchen is a laboratory. I’m Ivy — a writer raised by historians, now sharing Africa’s wisdom from the U.S. through cookbooks, cultural research, and storytelling. If you’re curious about where flavor meets memory, you belong here.

Recipes Explain Politics

🍚

🍚 When Rice Recipes Become Revolution

What if your grandmother's rice recipe could explain the Liberian Rice Riots of 1979?

"In Liberia, rice isn't just food—it's life, identity, and sovereignty. When the government proposed raising rice prices in 1979, they weren't just adjusting economics; they were threatening every grandmother's ability to feed her family according to traditions passed down for generations. The riot that followed wasn't about politics—it was about the sacred right to cook your family's rice recipe."

🍲 The Deeper Recipe:

  • Ingredients: Colonial trade patterns + Urbanization + Economic inequality
  • Preparation: Political disconnect from daily survival needs
  • Serving: 40+ deaths, regime destabilization, and a warning about ignoring cultural fundamentals

This is African Gourmet analysis: understanding how the food in grandmother's pot connects to the protests in the streets. The recipes we inherit carry not just flavor, but the entire history of our political and economic struggles.

Understanding Africa through the stories our food tells • Since 2006

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African Gourmet FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Why "The African Gourmet" if you cover more than just food?

Great question! While many associate "gourmet" exclusively with cuisine, its true meaning is "a connoisseur" – someone with refined taste and deep expertise. For over 18 years, I've served as a gourmet of African culture at large, savoring and presenting the continent's rich history, vibrant traditions, timeless wisdom, and contemporary stories with the same discerning palate one would apply to fine food. The name reflects my commitment to curating Africa's cultural wealth with authority and passion.

What makes The African Gourmet different from other culture sites?

With 18 years of consistent publishing, I offer depth and continuity that's rare online. I don't just report on African culture – I contextualize it, connecting traditional wisdom with modern realities, and food with folklore, politics, and daily life. It's a holistic view of Africa's past, present, and future, all through the lens of a seasoned cultural storyteller.

How do you choose what to write about?

My content selection is driven by a desire to showcase Africa's incredible diversity and challenge stereotypes. I balance covering foundational cultural elements (like proverbs and recipes) with timely analysis of current events (like the AGOA trade agreement). The goal is always to educate and illuminate the complex, dynamic realities of the African continent.

Do you focus on specific regions of Africa?

My coverage spans the entire continent – from North to South, East to West. While certain stories may focus on specific countries or regions, my mission is to represent the breathtaking diversity of 54 countries and thousands of cultures. I make a conscious effort to include both well-known and underrepresented cultures in my work.

Can I request a topic or contribute to the site?

I welcome thoughtful topic suggestions from engaged readers! While I maintain editorial control to ensure quality and consistency, I'm always interested in hearing what aspects of African culture you're curious about. Feel free to reach out through my contact page with your ideas.

How can I support The African Gourmet's work?

The greatest support is engaged readership – sharing articles you find valuable, participating in discussions, and helping spread cultural understanding. Following the blog and sharing it with others who would appreciate this unique perspective on Africa helps this 18-year labor of love continue to grow and reach new audiences.