OSHIKUKU – The heavy rains experienced over the last few days brought with it frogs – considered a delicacy by many in the northern regions.
Many frog connoisseurs say frogs’ “deliciousness” surpasses or is comparable only to chicken.
Supplying the demand is unemployed Nanas Nghinamanhu, who sells cooked frogs at the Take Times Bar alongside the road in Oshikuku and says the amphibians are now her main source of income.
“I wake up every morning to go harvest frogs in our village. Pans are full of people catching frogs to go and sell,” she added.
Nghinamanhu indicated that she makes up to N$450 or more on a good day, selling them in a bunch of five for N$30.
She walked away with N$500 yesterday. The price was good, and the demand was very high, she added.
“I have a small restaurant, and for now, other food does not matter as they are not making a profit. Customers are only asking for frogs,” Nghinamanhu continued.
She considers herself the best frog cook in town, and that’s why customers flock to her.
“Preparing and cooking frogs is nothing much. I cook it with water and salt, before adding a few other ingredients,” she explained.
Martin Johannes from Okando said frogs hibernate during the dry season, burrowing themselves deep under the soil, waiting for the rainy season, which is when they would re-emerge to feed and mate.
“We wait until we hear them croaking; that’s how we know they are ready for harvesting,” he added.
Johannes stated that catching frogs is not easy, but enjoyable at the same time.
“Sometimes we wait until we hear them croaking, then we go for them; moving step by step and silently so that they don’t jump far from us,” he described the process.
He, unlike others, sells a bundle of five mature frogs for N$50.
When he stands on the side of the road with frogs, he would stay for less than 10 minutes before the frogs are scooped up for the pot, but when selling fish, he could stand for hours.
Selma Andreas from Ompundja said she cooks her frogs for hours outside, using firewood instead of a gas stove.
“Frogs are only delicious if they are well-cooked. We all cook them in different ways if we have enough ingredients to add to the taste. Delicious!” she beamed.
She boasted that her frogs are the “best of the best”, and no traditional meat beats frog meat.
– vkaapanda@nepc.com.na
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