By Nancy Emily Nagujja
Ugandan culinary enthusiast Dorcus Basheba Kirabo, affectionately known to many as “Mama D”, accomplished an extraordinary feat that could secure her a place in culinary history. Starting her quest to surpass the record for the longest solo cooking marathon on December 23, 2023, at Zoe’s Cakes and Bites in Kira, Wakiso district, Mama D wrapped up her unprecedented journey on December 29, 2023.
The ambitious endeavor drew immense support from the local community and beyond, with a throng of Ugandans converging at her cooking location to offer their unwavering encouragement, both in material provisions and spiritual upliftment. Through widespread messages across various social media platforms, a wave of solidarity surged forth, with government officials, businesses, and celebrities rallying behind her noble endeavor. Many even made personal visits to her restaurant near Kampala to show their solidarity and appreciation.
In the pursuit of her culinary odyssey, Mama D graciously received an outpouring of cooking supplies and essentials from numerous benefactors. “All food is free… it is such people who keep us going. All one needs is to have the appetite, that’s all. Whoever eats encourages me,” she expressed with gratitude.
Driven by Uganda’s rich tapestry of traditional cuisines, Mama D articulated her motivation for taking on this monumental challenge, aiming to be the emissary for the nation’s diverse culinary heritage. “Uganda is bestowed with an abundance of traditional foods and I want to showcase them to the world, to be the ambassador for the wonderful diverse cuisines of Uganda, the pearl of Africa,” she passionately remarked.
Mama D, renowned for her culinary finesse, embarked on this extraordinary venture not just to break records but also to inspire young women, emphasizing that dreams are within reach for anyone with dedication and determination.
In a historic turn of events, on the morning of Thursday, December 28, 2023, Dorcus Bashema Kirabo, aka Mama D, eclipsed the existing world record for the longest continuous cooking session. Surpassing Alan Fisher’s recent feat of 119 hours and 57 minutes, Mama D achieved a staggering time that stands at 144 hours as the clock ticks, a milestone that she awaits the Guinness World Records to verify and substantiate in the ensuing weeks.
Acknowledging the invaluable support from sponsors such as Royco, Tusker Cider, Yo Kuku chicken, Urban TV, Uganda Tourism Board, and others, Mama D extends her gratitude to everyone who contributed to this remarkable journey.
As the culinary world eagerly awaits official confirmation from @GWR, Mama D’s relentless spirit, culinary prowess, and determination stand as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the vibrant culinary heritage of Uganda. #MamaDsWorldRecord
