WOMEN IN THE ECONOMY #3
OURO BRANCO
in Angolan culture, manioc flour prepared into funge is as fundamental as rice in Asia. Manioc, a nutrient-rich root, thrives even on dry land with minimal maintenance. This ‘white gold’ is a daily staple in rural families. Grinding manioc into flour traditionally requires physical effort, and is often done with a wooden grinder. However, to save time and energy, the women from the village ‘Above the Baobab Trees’ prefer to queue at a nearby mill that quickly grinds their collected and dried manioc.
Upon our arrival at the mill, the scene was impressively loud and dusty. Some were in a hurry, raising their voices to attract the attention of the mill operator. Others waited quietly, their hair, skin and clothes gradually becoming coated in a fine layer of flour. Meanwhile, younger women used the occasion as a chance to socialize and have fun. The air, filled with white particles and lit by shafts of light, gave the room a magic stage-like appearance, inspiring me instantly. These are the moments I relish most in photography – feeling part of the moment, flowing attentively through the scene, waiting for the perfect combination of form, light and gesture. Completely focused, with no sense of time. Fortunately, no one seemed bothered by my camera, as we had introduced our project beforehand and the women had enjoyed looking through the magazines we brought along.
It had already turned dark as more and more women left with their ground flour to prepare meals for their families at home. Stepping outside, we were greeted by another breathtaking sunset. In the dim light of a lantern, two older women enthusiastically engaged in the traditional manual grinding of the manioc, deep in conversation. It was heartening to see that tradition still endures.
On the drive back to our accommodation, I pondered what it must be like to prepare one’s own flour before even beginning to cook a meal. I smiled at the thought of how proud I feel when baking my own bread, with flour picked from a shelf. Different realities entirely transform the value of something so simple.
