The Oya Voice
-
Heritage Diets: Africa’s Answer to the Mediterranean
We’ve all heard about the Mediterranean diet and its health benefits—but what if the real superfoods are right here in Africa? New research from Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro region shows that traditional diets built on plantains, cassava, beans, millet, sorghum, and even the fermented banana drink mbege can reduce inflammation, strengthen immunity, and boost metabolic health.
As fast food and processed diets spread, these findings highlight the urgency of protecting Africa’s food heritage—not just for cultural pride, but for global health.