At the invitation of Young Professionals International Affairs I became Chef Agang for a day. The event was a fun cooking class with cuisine from Botswana. A culinary journey that included intriguing conversations about Botswana’s history, politics, music and culture. In the African culture, sharing food is common and somewhat of an expectation. There are many African food related proverbs representing kindness, warmth and acceptance.
This was a great opportunity to network with YPIA members from the International Development Sector. The conversation quickly evolving to how young people can unite to address global development issues. Eating with our hands, all plates were wiped clean in a matter of minutes Hahahaha!!!
Presenting the Menu:
- Phaleche
- Chakalaka
- Beef stew
YUUUUMMMY!!! 
Phaleche is a staple food in Southern Africa, fine maize meal cooked in boiling water until it forms a thick paste. Chakalaka is a colorful spicy vegetable relish usually accompanying starchy mains. And boy! do we love and enjoy our beef which can be prepared fried, grilled, boiled or into a delicious stew seasoned to perfection. ::Fun Fact:: Botswana Beef Industry is an economy driver and has for decades now exported to European markets.
This was a fun learning experience with friends and a perfect way to spend a cold November Saturday afternoon.
About the Author:
Agang K. Ditlhogo is currently an Atlas Corps Fellow and serving as International Energy & Internet Fellow at Tetra Tech. As an ICT Advocate, she if founder of The Clicking Generation and through various initiatives to include Africa Code Week, ITU-GirlsInICT and #eSkills4Girls Agang continues to work closely with relevant stakeholders to implement ICT programmes throughout SADC. Agang holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from University of Botswana. She has 8 years in the ICT sector with a keen interest in ICT4Development.
