Lena Hagemann - Black History Month Contribution 2025

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the rich cultural heritage, struggles, and triumphs of the African diaspora. While history is often told through stories, music, and art, food plays an equally significant role in preserving identity and connecting generations. One dish that embodies this deep cultural significance is fufu, a starchy, dough-like staple widely eaten across West and Central Africa, including Cameroon. 

The Significance of Fufu 

Fufu is much more than just a meal—it is a symbol of heritage, community, and endurance. Made by boiling and pounding starchy ingredients such as cassava, yams, or plantains, fufu takes on a smooth, elastic consistency. It is typically served as an accompaniment to hearty soups and stews, making it an essential part of African cuisine. In Cameroon, fufu is commonly enjoyed with eru, a rich soup made from finely chopped leaves, palm oil, and an assortment of meats or fish. Other popular dishes that pair well with fufu include egusi soup, a thick, melon seed-based stew; okra soup, known for its slippery texture and savory taste; and ndolé, a Cameroonian specialty made with bitter leaves, peanuts, and seafood or meat. These dishes not only provide nourishment but also serve as a cultural connection to the past, linking generations through shared flavors and traditions. 

A Journey Through History 

The history of fufu is deeply intertwined with the African diaspora. During the transatlantic slave trade, millions of Africans were forcibly taken from their homelands and transported to the Americas and the Caribbean. Despite the immense hardships they faced, they carried their culinary traditions with them, adapting their diets to the ingredients available in new lands. As a result, variations of fufu can be found across the world. In Puerto Rico, for example, mofongo—a dish made by mashing fried plantains with garlic and pork cracklings—bears a strong resemblance to fufu. Similarly, in Barbados, cou-cou, made from cornmeal and okra, reflects the influence of African cooking techniques. These dishes, though slightly different in preparation, share the same cultural roots, serving as a powerful reminder of African heritage and resilience. 

Why Fufu Matters During Black History Month 

Fufu is more than just a traditional dish—it is a testament to the strength, survival, and cultural pride of African-descended people. Throughout history, African culinary traditions have persisted despite slavery, colonialism, and migration. Today, they continue to thrive, influencing global food culture and bringing people together through shared meals. Eating fufu is also a communal experience. In many African households, it is traditionally eaten with the hands, rolled into small balls, and dipped into soup before being swallowed. This practice emphasizes unity and connection, reinforcing the idea that food is not just about sustenance but also about togetherness. During Black History Month, celebrating dishes like fufu is a meaningful way to honor African heritage and acknowledge its lasting impact on the world. Whether enjoyed in Cameroon with eru, in Nigeria with egusi soup, or in the Caribbean with a local variation, fufu remains a powerful cultural symbol—one that tells a story of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring legacy of African cuisine.