For World Vegan Month, The Vegan Review is sharing the stories of vegans from 30 countries around the world. Here’s one from Tanzania.
Nishma Shah, 54, is a homemaker from Tanzania.
She went vegan in 2015. “Kiswahili is the national language of Tanzania,” she says, “but ‘vegan’ as a word does not exist in its dictionary, as the locals are hardcore meat-eaters.”
Why did you go vegan?
A friend of mine introduced me to the concept of veganism. She mentioned how cow’s milk contains pus cells and how they are treated badly, given steroids and artificial impregnated. All this made me think whether I really want to continue consuming milk, considering milk contains pus cells and how the cows are treated. Although one person will not make a difference to cruelty to cows, vegans at large can make a difference.
What was the biggest challenge when you transitioned?
I did not face any major challenges in transitioning to veganism, as I was born a vegetarian and for almost 10 years prior, I had not consumed cheese, which is the toughest to avoid for some people. Initially, I did miss my yoghurt but now I make my own cashew yoghurt.
What was the reaction of your loved ones when you went plant-based? How did they adapt?
My family did not object to me turning to vegan. They were all very supportive. When we go on holidays, they look up for vegan and vegetarian restaurants. They adapted very well.
Who are your influences?
My friends are my influences for veganism, two are based in the UK and one is based in Tanzania.
What’s your favourite thing to cook now? Have you tried to veganise a local traditional dish?
I love to cook Mexican food, especially tacos. I replace sour cream with cashew yoghurt. A majority of local dishes are coconut milk-based, and are thus vegan.
What vegan product do you wish your country had available?
Vegan ice cream. I used to love my ice creams!
How accessible and affordable are vegan products in your country?
We do not have vegan products available in the supermarket as there are only a few vegans in Tanzania. But I do not miss buying vegan products from the supermarkets, as they are all processed and have preservatives. Living in Tanzania, I have to cook all my meals right from scratch, and I enjoy my cooking.
What’s your favourite spot for vegan food in your city?
Chowpatty, an Indian vegetarian restaurant in Dar es Salaam City Centre.
What is the one city you’d like to visit as a vegan?
I would like to visit Israel, as it’s got the highest number of vegans, and there are many restaurants that cater to vegans.
Check out our story about the rise of vegan weddings in Israel.
What’s the biggest roadblock to veganism in your country?
Tanzanians are meat-eaters. And thus, there isn’t much awareness about veganism.
