Heritage Month: ‘Tubaani’ reflects culture, nutrition and livelihoods

Sunyani (Bono), March 9, – As Ghana observes Heritage Month, the traditional Northern delicacy Tubaani is gaining renewed recognition not only for its nutritional value but also for its cultural significance and economic potential.

For siblings Fatima and Abawana, the meal formed part of their daily breakfast while growing up in northern Ghana. Like many others, they initially saw it simply as a nourishing meal without realising its deeper connection to tradition and identity.

As migration from northern Ghana to other parts of the country continues, the dish—popular on the streets of Tamale—has also become a familiar sight in Sunyani, where vendors say demand is steadily increasing.

Prepared mainly from soaked beans ground into flour and steamed into a pudding-like consistency, Tubaani is commonly wrapped in fresh leaves and served with pepper sauce, stew or shito.

Madam Asibi Kutuu, an experienced Frafra Tubaani vendor at New Dormaa in Sunyani, explained that the dish requires patience and skill. “You grind the beans into a smooth paste, add a little water and salt, wrap it in leaves and steam it for about 20 minutes,” she said.

She described Tubaani as more than just food, noting that it symbolises unity and creativity among communities, particularly within the Frafra people.

Nutritionists note that the dish contains significant levels of protein, iron, folates and soluble fibre, making it a healthy meal option.

For many women in urban communities, the food also provides an important source of income. Salamatu Amina, a single mother who sells the delicacy, said demand among office workers has grown.

“I even provide office delivery to some of my customers,” she said, adding that prices range between GH¢5 and GH¢20 depending on ingredients.

Another vendor, Fatimatu Awanaga, who sells near the COCOBOD building in Sunyani, said limited capital prevented many vendors from producing the dish in larger quantities.

She suggested that access to modern cooking equipment could help vendors increase production, preserve the food longer and expand their businesses.

Madam Awanaga appealed to the Government to provide financial support to women in Zongo communities who depend on Tubaani sales for their livelihoods.

GHBUSS

9 March 2026