08 Jan 2017

For centuries, different cultures have used insects as a staple food most precisely for their high protein content and benefits.

In many societies, termites are considered a delicacy.

Japanese highly uphold and feast on termites in their diet.

Whilst in Tanzania, they feverishly call them Kumbikumbi and it is indeed a Tanzanian treat.

Most people in Ngamiland and Okavango regions, more specifically Bayeyi, indulge and find joy in harvesting termites for consumption.

 Speaking in an interview with BOPA recently one of the historians of the village, Ms Airlie Raditse Keotlhokile, 91, foretold that in the olden days they did not bother much about meat.

They usually relied on termites for protein intake, something she described  as cost friendly.

Ms Keotlhokile explaned that just like bees, there is a special technique used to harvest termites. “Termites reproduce and are caught en masse during rainy days.

They usually manifest in a pit somewhere, so it is better to use a torch or light so that harvesting can be easier.

Termites can also be plucked right out of whatever wood or surface they are feasting on,” she said.

Termites like where it is moist the most.

After harvesting, they are fried or toasted. After toasting them it is wiser to remove or separate termites from bugs (edible from inedible).

Thereafter, they are dried in the sun till they are crispy and ready for consumption.

They can be dried for days on end depending on the strength of the sun.

Ms Keotlhokile noted that after they have dried thoroughly it is better to grind them using mortar and pestle until they turn fluffy and smooth.

When they release a white foam, they are indeed ready for consumption.

“After grinding the termites, it is advisable to store them in an airtight container and make sure that they are stored in a cool dry place far away from water. This is vital because they will last longer and remain fresher for weeks on ends,” she said.

Ms Keotlhokile highlighted that there are other ways of enjoying termites as they can be eaten raw or as tasty snacks.

 Definably, she explained that termites have an alluring taste and it has that distinct buttery and nutty flavor which can be enjoyed both by the young and the old.

They can also be roasted, fried, or salted.

Ms Keotlhokile highlighted that termites have a high calorie and protein content and it has many benefits which are favorable to the body.

For instance, she said, termites have the ability to boost one’s appetite and another humorous factor is that when one devours a spoon of termites, they will be literally full the whole day, one will keep drinking a glass of water every now and then-a sign that shows that they are indeed content.

On the other hand, in other tribes like Basarwa, they use termites for healing purposes or as traditional medicine to heal many ailments.

Wittingly, Ms Keotlhokile defines that apart from devouring, when termites move en masse the sight is unforgettably beautiful and it reminds her of a chorus of soldiers going to war, something that warms her heart dearly.

As they come out of their fortress in mounds they are a view to behold.

She explained that even today, people enjoy termites in festivities like weddings and it is gratifying to see that they are really still pleasurable.

Lastly, Keotlhokile encouraged the youth to restore culture and traditions and to preserve and uphold indigenous food as they are much healthier to consume. ENDS