Senegalese Teranga
Essay by Fatoumata Diop, A 2022 Higher Education Scholarship Winner answering the question, “What would you like people to know about your culture?”
I was born and raised in West Africa, but I’m originally from Dakar, the capital of Senegal. My parents owned a hut in a village called “Somone.” It is located south, down the coast from the city. It was a small village where everybody knew each other. The habitants were calm, but hard-working people, and they were very friendly. For example, they had a tradition in which they brought a dish of welcoming to every guest no matter where you are from. This welcome dish is called “Teranga.” We have 20 Ethnicities in Senegal, but the only culture we share is Taranga.
Teranga shows how we should treat a guest with open arms, a seat around the bowl or plate and the best parts are reserved for guests. Teranga is a unique concoction of generosity, hospitality, sharing and always lifting each other up. This applies to everyone, they make you feel safe and welcome, regardless of nationality, religion, or class. In many families, there is an extra plate ready and put a side for just in case a guest comes after lunch, and if anyone didn’t show up, they can give it to other neighbors who might not have dinner.
Teranga doesn’t stop with meals. Often elderlies take the time to educate and guide children around the neighborhood, much as a parent would do in their family. In addition, Teranga unites people of different religions. For instance, Christians in my country have their specialty they prepare for holidays. You will have Christian families bringing dishes to Muslim families. This food sharing goes both way during the Muslim holiday of Eid al Adah when celebrants offer lamb to their Christian neighbors.
Teranga has another aspect in Senegalese culture, which is the greeting. Greetings are very important. You can’t just come and start talking with someone without greeting, it’s considered rude.
Teranga is a way of living in this rich culture! No wonder why visitors to the country always want to come back.