Bungoma Eating Competition: Wanyonyi Wipes 20 Chapatis And 5Kg beans In 10 Minutes,

Wanyoike Mwangi April 12, 2023

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A middle-aged guy from Marakaru in Bungoma county by the name of Wanyonyi recently made headlines for his amazing achievement of eating 20 Chapatis and 5-kilogram beans in just 10 minutes. The hot meal is prepared in an open field and served to competitors after 45 minutes while spectators witness this eating contest every year during the tea plantation season.

Wanyonyi was declared the competition’s champion, earning himself free fertilizer and tree seeds for planting. Wanyonyi said that his ability to eat well was the reason for his success and insisted that finishing such a large lunch was not a difficult chore for him, much to the surprise and astonishment of spectators. He stated that he would be eager to take part in more eating contests because he genuinely enjoys the pastime.

Wanyonyi’s accomplishment astounds many because it takes a lot of effort to consume that much food. Wamalwa, on the other hand, appears to have a natural flair for eating and enjoys the chance to compete in these events.

This is why women from the Luyha community are barred from eating ‘Ingokho’

Sometimes it is beneficial for young people to create time with elders in our communities and share more about our cultural beliefs. This is where you can get your identity and know why some norms are there and the consequences that may follow in case you ignore them.

Last week I got a chance to interact with two Bukusu elders, John Sunguti, 78, and Amos Wanjala 80. We discussed an array of Luhya customs and the central topic was on why traditionally women were not allowed to eat chicken. For them, it was a custom that was strictly followed which is why some elderly women in western Kenya don’t eat chicken.

Furthermore although in present times they are allowed to eat, they are some parts that are “no-go zone for women”. Gizzard is a very precious part and in fact, some men in their households cannot eat chicken if Gizzard is missing in the action.

“There is no way I can eat chicken without that part,” he says. He further adds that modern women due to ignorant of cultures have gone against this rule. It may also earn a woman a divorce, and according to the two elders the matter can be settled in a court of law. Take for instance a man in Ndengelwa, Bungoma County who beat up his wife because the wife had eaten the backbone of the kitchen, the part that is traditionally meant for men. But what could be the real reason behind women being barred from eating chicken traditionally?

According to Derrick Makhanu, 55 he believes that this was a ploy by men to enjoy chicken delicacy alone. He further adds that the fallacious analogy that eggs have health implications for women is a mere lie. “I don’t think eggs have side effects they are nutritious,” he says.

He further adds that the reason behind it is the fear that women may feast on all eggs leaving the chicken with no eggs to hatch.

This statement left me waging in laughter although is a real fact. For instance, a man in Busia County almost killed his wife on learning that his wife had cooked an egg without his permission.

But whisper this idea to modern women. She will laugh off and blame you for being so conservative.

For instance, Anne 36, a financial advisor in Bungoma town says that old traditions have been put in place to demean women. “I feel that traditions were meant to oppress women while they celebrated men,” she says.

She further adds that civilization through education has empowered women giving them a chance in society and equal opportunity as men. According to Anne, some traditional beliefs that are not relevant should be done away with. “I find it of no importance to still practice some beliefs that don’t make sense” she adds. All the same is it the right time to outlaw outrageous cultural beliefs that have been in place to discriminate against women?