Tanzanians have been urged to make greater use of nutritious foods derived from indigenous plants, seeds and fruits as part of efforts to promote healthier lifestyles and prevent diet-related illnesses.
The call was made by HOPECA Products and Amra Gogondi Director, Dr Manimba Daniel, who said many traditional plant foods contain vitamins, minerals, fibre and other nutrients that can support the body’s normal functions.
Speaking during the Tanzania Cultural Festival in Morogoro, Dr Daniel said improving health required a broader lifestyle change that included eating nutritious foods, engaging in regular physical activity and getting adequate rest.
He said HOPECA flour is a nutritional product made from a mixture of 20 types of plant seeds and various indigenous fruits, which he said provide a range of nutrients.
“HOPECA is a combination of vitamin C, fibre and minerals that help support the immune system, hormonal functions and the body’s natural processes of eliminating waste,” Dr Daniel said.
He also highlighted Amra Gogondi, a wild fruit, saying its powder and tea are traditionally promoted for their nutritional benefits.
According to Dr Daniel, Amra tea can support digestion and may help people manage cholesterol and unhealthy fats when incorporated into an appropriate diet.
“Amra tea helps invigorate the body, supports the management of fats in the blood and cholesterol, and assists the digestive system in dealing with waste from food residues,” he said.
Dr Daniel further said Amra powder was being promoted for its nutritional value and potential role in supporting the body's natural repair and defence processes.
He encouraged Tanzanians to pay greater attention to indigenous foods, arguing that increased consumption of locally available nutritious plants, fruits and seeds could complement efforts to improve dietary diversity.
The remarks come amid growing interest in traditional foods and plant-based products, with health experts generally emphasising the importance of balanced diets, physical activity and other healthy lifestyle practices in maintaining good health.
Dr Daniel, however, said the use of traditional nutritional products should go hand in hand with scientific research to establish their safety, nutritional value and effectiveness.
Health authorities have repeatedly stressed the importance of relying on scientifically established evidence when making claims about products used for the prevention or treatment of diseases.