Whether it be in a big town wide feast or small family dinner, a defining factor within holidays and different celebrations are the food. Africa has a diverse array of dishes depending on the specific holiday or country. One holiday that cannot be dismissed is Christmas in West Africa. There, the famous cuisine is chicken stew which is a flavorful dish that contains a tomato base and chicken. Sometimes the food may have fish or beef. The meal originated from West and Central Africa, but has migrated to be a popular dish in the entire continent. Many families of West Africa wouldn’t be complete on Christmas if the stew was not served. 

Another holiday is Jamhuri Day which is celebrated in Kenya on the 12th of every December. This is a day of festivities that typically ends in feasting. Though there are many notable foods that surround the holiday, Ugali is the side dish that won’t go unseen. 

“Ugali was a staple during meal time, especially during holidays and special occasions,” said an employee at a local African restaurant. 

Ugali is a stiff maize flour porridge, and is one of the only dishes that is eaten by pinching. The side dish originated when maize found its way from America to Africa in the 16th and 17th century. There, when the Luhyas in Kenya tried to cook thick porridge from the maize, Ugali was formed for the first time. 

“Many assume the dish is flavorless, but it has a popcorn-like taste,” the employee said when asked about the flavor. 

Even though the flavor is not strong, it is often dipped into other parts of the served meal like stew. 

“Food is a huge significance to African celebrations, and has always been my favorite part of the holidays,” said the employee. 

In summary, Africa is not to be underestimated when it comes to traditional holidays and delicious cuisines within its rich culture.