Sunyani: Miss Mariam Abubakari, a well-known vendor of 'Akyeke', has highlighted the significance of the local Ivorian cuisine as a profitable enterprise and a vital source of income for numerous women in Ghana. She has called for government support as the country celebrates Ghana Heritage Month, emphasizing that even minimal assistance could empower many unemployed young women to engage in preparing and selling this local dish, thereby enhancing their socio-economic status.
According to Ghana News Agency, Ms. Abubakari, who owns 'Mimi's Akyeke' located along the Sunyani-Zongo one-way road, noted that the dish enjoys high patronage, especially during the dry season when its preparation becomes more manageable. She believes that with some government backing, she could expand her business, hire more staff, and train interested young women. Ms. Abubakari also pointed out that high-interest rates deter her and other small-scale vendors from obtaining credit facilities. She expressed optimism that the government would expedite the establishment of the proposed Women's Development Bank, which would offer accessible financing, mentorship, and business development support tailored to women-led enterprises.
'Akyeke', a dish originating from an Ivorian dialect, is a cassava-based meal believed to have roots among the indigenes of C´te d'Ivoire. It is widely consumed in Sampa, a Ghana-C´te d'Ivoire border town in the Jaman North District of the Bono Region. The preparation involves boiling cassava dough in hot water and typically includes ingredients like ground green pepper mixed with onion, oil, salt, and fish. While traditionally paired with cabbage stew, the dish is now often enjoyed with vegetables, beans, eggs, salad, shito, ripe plantain, sauces, spring onions, carrots, and roasted groundnuts.
Checks reveal that the ingredients used in 'Akyeke', such as groundnut, peas, pepper, onion, ginger, and beans, contribute to boosting the body's immunity, reducing the risk of heart disease and cancers, aiding in cell regeneration, and improving digestion. These ingredients are also beneficial for pregnant women and nursing mothers.