African Food and Art

This blog explores the wisdom of African proverbs, the depth of folklore, the beauty of art, the stories of history, and the flavors of timeless African food recipes.

I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas 20 facts

20 facts about the African hippopotamus for kids


18. Hippopotamus are one of the most dangerous animals in Africa and are around 6 feet tall weighing upwards of 8,000 pounds
Hippos resting in the sand

I want a hippopotamus for Christmas only a hippopotamus will do.

20 facts about the African hippopotamus for kids


1. Hippos spend up to 16 hours a day submerged in rivers and lakes to keep their massive bodies cool.


2. A baby hippo is called a calf and weighs nearly 100 pounds at birth.


3. A female hippopotamus is called a cow.


4. A group of hippos in known as a school.


5. A male hippopotamus is called a bull.


6. Hippos eyes and nostrils are located high on their heads, which allows them to see and breathe while mostly submerged.


7. Hippos can easily outrun a human running up to speeds on 20 miles per hour.


8. Hippos secrete an oily red substance, which gave rise to the myth that they sweat blood.

Hippos teeth can grow up to 3 feet in length.
Hippos teeth can grow up to 3 feet in length
9. Hippopotamuses give birth in water.


10. Female hippos have only one calf every two years.


11. Hippopotamuses spend a large amount of time in water such as rivers, lakes and swamps.


12. Hippos are threatened by habitat loss and poachers who hunt them for their meat and teeth.


13. Hippos are herbivores grassing on nearly 80 pounds of grass per day.


14. Hippos typically live for around 40 years.


15. The closest relations of the hippopotamus are whales and dolphins.


16. Hippos teeth can grow up to 3 feet in length.


17. Hippopotamuses love water, which is why the Greeks named them the river horse.


18. Hippopotamus are one of the most dangerous animals in Africa and are around 6 feet tall weighing upwards of 8,000 pounds.


19. Hippos are responsible for more human deaths than almost any other creature in Africa. Hippos live only in eastern central and southern sub-Saharan Africa.


20. Hippos travel at night up to 6 miles to find food.

Hippopotamus are one of the most dangerous animals in Africa
Hippopotamus are one of the most dangerous animals in Africa 


Together we build awareness that boost harmony, education, and success, below are more links to articles you will find thought provoking.

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Chic African Culture and The African Gourmet=

Week’s Best African Culture Posts

Kru Tribe Fine Boy Tradition

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Dream-nightmare story from the Kru people of Liberia: the newly chosen Fine Boy is temporarily celebrated with fanfare and pleasure. Kru Tribe Fine Boy Tradition Fascinating stories emerged during the Pepper Coast's glory days. Beginning in the 15th century, European traders established outposts along the Liberian coastline, drawn by its wealth of humans, spices, and other commodities.  Centuries later, in the 19th century, the American Colonization Society (ACS) founded settlements in Liberia and began journalling native stories.  Among these tales is a dream-nightmare story from the Kru people of Liberia, a story so intriguing it almost seems too good to be true because, in some ways, it is.   The Kru women periodically held elections to select a young, handsome man as their “Fine Boy.” The announcement of his selection was celebrated with a vibrant procession featuring music, singing, and dancing.  The newly chosen Fine Boy was placed at the front of the para...
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What is the difference between ugali and fufu

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How to make the popular African recipes Ugali and Fufu and what is the difference.  Ugali is a starch dish in Kenya and Tanzania made of fine cornmeal cooked in boiling water into a soft dough. Fufu is a thick, dough-like West African food made by boiling then pounding a starchy vegetable such as yam, plantain, or cassava or a mixture of starchy vegetables. The main difference between fufu and ugali is fufu is boiled first then pounded while ugali is simply boiled. Ugali recipe. Easy Ugali Recipe Prep time 5 minutes Cook time 30 minutes Total time 30 minutes Ingredients 4 cups finely ground cornmeal 8 cups water Directions Heat water to boiling in a saucepan. Slowly pour cornmeal into boiling water stirring continuously. Add more cornmeal if necessary until it is thick as soft bread dough. Serve immediately with vegetables, stew, or any dish you would use a spoon with to soak up the sauce, ugali is purposely bland tasting on its own. What is the difference between ugali ...
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African Spirit Tree Test

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Africa boasts a remarkable array of unique trees, each showcasing distinct qualities that set it apart, much like the diverse personalities of people. The majestic Baobab, with its thick trunk and expansive canopy, symbolizes wisdom and resilience, while the vibrant Protea embodies courage and boldness with its striking flowers. Which tree do you resonate with? Are you as wise as the ancient Baobab or as daring as the brilliant Protea? Discover your true spirit by taking this engaging quiz designed to match you with an African tree that reflects your personality. Each tree symbolizes unique characteristics and qualities, so dive in to explore the connection between your spirit and these magnificent natural wonders. Get ready for a fun journey of self-discovery. Question 1: How Do You Handle Challenges? A.  You stand firm and face them head-on, using your wisdom. B.  You quietly help others and offer comfort. C.  You adapt quickly and find creative solutions. D.  You ...
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Keto Moroccan Dinner Cooked Slowly

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Slow Cooked Moroccan Kefta Lamb Meatballs   Keto Tagine Morocco is at the geographic and cultural crossroads between Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.   In Morocco, the term tagine refers to a slow cooked stew as well as the pot the stew is made in. Kefta Tagine Kefta Tagine is a keto-friendly Moroccan lamb meatball food dish fitted for your low-carb lifestyle. The slow cooking of the meatballs allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a fragrant, hearty keto meal. The star of the Kefta Tagine dish is lamb, symbolizing the richness of Moroccan hospitality. Lamb meat has been a staple in North African cuisine for centuries, with lamb being central to celebrations and religious festivals.  Ground lamb meat is spiced and shaped into small balls, known as kefta, a preparation that dates back to ancient Berber traditions.  The kefta are seasoned with cumin, paprika, and coriander, spices that have shaped Morocco’s history in the global trading of spices whi...
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