4 minute read
The Ghanaian Vegan: Zulfiquer Gbedemah
Zulfiquer Gbedemah aka The Ghanian Vegan takes a break from his favourite occupation to say hello and bring us up to speed with the current vegan scene in Accra Ghana.
Hey Zuu – The Ghanaian Vegan! What’s cooking?
Hi guys! I’m blessed and loved! It’s a pleasure speaking to you.
Accra looks a really vibrant place for plant-based food!
It’s honestly something that surprised me. Before I transitioned to a plant-based lifestyle a couple of years ago, I had very little diversity in my meals. Now, my eyes have been opened to all the delicious options that have been a part of the food culture here for centuries. In an increasingly globalised world where fast food is more attractive, some of our traditional food options, which require more time and care to prepare tend to take a back seat.
Do you do a lot of cooking?
I try to cook my own food as often as I can. I prefer making my own food because I’m completely in control of what goes into the pot. Funny enough, cooking is something I’m still getting used to because I was never a fan of making my own food while I was growing up; it took too long for my liking. My friends and family find it funny that I’ve come full circle to making cooking videos on the internet!
And eating presumably?
That is my real talent. My favourite thing to do in this world is to eat, and I’m very good at it! The best part about cooking food is eating it. In recent times, food has taken me on a journey around Accra. I’ve tried most of the vegan and plant-based spots in the city and I’ve loved every moment of it. There’s a diverse and growing vegan food culture out here and there’s a lot to experience and enjoy.
You’re on social media a lot?
I’ve always taken naturally to social media. I have a background in media, digital marketing and content creation so when I started my vegan journey, it felt like the natural thing to do to document it on social media. It started as a way to keep myself accountable but later, I realised I could be a source of some of the valuable information I struggled to find while I was transitioning. Using social media for veganism has been surprisingly refreshing. Most of the people that interact with me are more curious than malicious. Of course, there have been a few unpleasant interactions here and there, but it’s been a largely pleasant experience.
And TikTok!! Fun?
Initially, it was a little challenging to stay on top of Tik- Tok and the ever-evolving trends. Once I got the hang of it, it’s been a very fun experience! Unfortunately, I haven’t joined in on the dance trends because of my two left feet, but maybe I’ll surprise everyone one day. TikTok and Instagram remind me daily of how imaginative people are. In the vegan space, it’s been a joy seeing how clever my fellow creators are. Creating content, especially around food is extremely hard work so seeing the immense work rates of my colleagues always leaves me awestruck!
Any tips for budding vegan activists?
Always be ready to research! Never be afraid to ask questions and find out the truth for yourself. Always have an open mind and be ready to listen. Try to build or join a community because no matter how talented and strong you are, you cannot do everything alone. And I think one of the most important qualities to have is patience. There is room to improve in every field of your activism so don’t get complacent. Always strive for growth.
Favourite groups in Ghana that promote veganism?
The Vibrant Vegan Society of Ghana (VVESOG), ran by Tivai, is one of my favourites. They do great work, especially around animal rights. The Vegetarian Association of Ghana is another worth checking out. They host a great annual event, VegFest.
I will be hosting a few events in the coming months, so if you’re ever in Accra, keep your eyes peeled or get in contact with me for any details!
