Uji: A Tradition at Partage Tanzanie

Widely consumed throughout East Africa, uji is a traditional porridge made from cereals such as maize, millet or sorghum. For generations, it has been part of the daily lives of many Tanzanian families. Inexpensive, nutritious and easy to prepare, uji is often one of the first foods given to young children and remains a valued source of energy for schoolchildren. It is also a nutritious snack commonly consumed by pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as by elderly or sick people.

Depending on the region and the ingredients used, its colour can range from light beige to dark brown. Its taste may be sweet, spicy or slightly fermented, and its texture can vary from thin and drinkable to thick and hearty. Every family has its own recipe and traditions.

A Tradition at Partage Tanzanie

For many years, uji has been part of the daily routine of children attending Partage Tanzanie's Montessori kindergartens. Served during the morning break, it is a moment eagerly anticipated by the children and contributes significantly to their well-being at school.

When the Partage Tanzanie team identifies specific nutritional deficiencies among certain children, the recipe can be adapted by adding other locally available ingredients to provide additional nutritional support.

The approximately 600 secondary school students supported by the association also receive a daily serving of uji. The cost remains relatively modest: around €13 per student per year, with the schools themselves taking care of its preparation. While this amount may seem small, it provides many young people with an additional source of energy every day throughout their schooling.

Recipe of the Month: Tanzanian Uji

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 100 g flour (maize, millet or a mixture)

• 1 litre of water

• 1 tablespoon margarine or butter (optional)

• Sugar (optional)

Preparation

1. Mix the flour with a little cold water to avoid lumps.

2. Heat the remaining water in a saucepan.

3. Gradually add the flour mixture while stirring continuously.

4. Simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens.

5. Add sugar to taste, then margarine if you would like a richer version.

6. Stir well and serve hot.

Depending on the resources available to families or schools, uji can be more or less rich... and sometimes heavily "diluted"!

A Simple but Important Recipe

Uji remains a symbol of the small daily gestures that mean so much to children. Affordable, easy to prepare and nourishing, it has accompanied generations of pupils in Partage Tanzanie schools. And behind this simple bowl of warm porridge often lies much more than a meal: a moment of comfort, sharing and support. 💛