Maputo -
In southern Mozambique, the Ukanyu drink is revered for its supposed aphrodisiac powers, and is traditionally consumed during the month of February.
The tradition predates Valentine's Day, which in the West is celebrated on February 14. As Western culture seeps into modern Mozambican life, local lovers are finding a way to mix the two.
Made primarily from the fruit of the marula tree, small amounts of sugar and water are added to the syrup, and the concoction is set aside to ferment over the course of a few days.
The first sips of the latest harvest were drunk at a ceremony this month marking a 1895 battle of resistance to Portuguese colonialists. The European power ruled the southern African nation until 1975.
Marracuane, a village some 30 kilometres north of Maputo, serves as the production hub of the drink, which is made by women but mostly consumed by men.
“Nowadays, we have people from all over the country flocking here to taste the beverage,” village elder Antonio Mabjaia said. “From youngsters, elders, black, white, rich and poor people. It's a sociable drink and it is a unifier.”
“But the main reason these people come here is in pursuit of the magical powers of the drink. It is the source of libido, it has a magnificent power to enhance sexual activity,” he added.
Mabjaia offers his own life as proof: he has 24 children from four wives.
“When people drink Ukanyu their bodies get rejuvenated, re-energized and willing to have sex. I have most of my children thanks to this drink. I owe my sexual activity, longevity to it. I'm 84 now. I still do it”, the elder said.
In order to avoid too much promiscuity, men are encouraged to drink Ukanyu when not in the presence of women - besides their wives.
Traditionally, the drink was only bartered and never offered for sale. But, the beverage has in recent years become a “very profitable business,” locals say, especially around Valentine's Day.
Paulo Zimba, a young electrician in the capital, says he drank a dose of Ukanyu at his grandmother's house over the weekend, to get ready for lovers' day.
“Every February I use this beverage to cleanse my body and get revamped for the new year and, of course, for my relationship with my girl,” Zimba said. -
Sapa-dpa