läbikumava

Läbikumava is a Dagbani word, spoken in the northern regions of Ghana. It is often referred to as a form of cooking and is also known by other names such as relay cooking or combination of dishes. The origin of the term läbikumava is rooted in the meaning of its Dagbani components, literally translating to "I portion, then you cook, then I bring." However, in the local context, läbikumava means sharing time spent in the kitchen.

Läbikumava is a key part of Dagbani tradition and social dynamics. It is mainly practiced among friends and family members who gather in the kitchen to share meals. The practice allows individuals to collaborate in the cooking process, which is seen as a means of strengthening social bonds within a community. Preparation and sharing of meals are closely tied to social exchange, hospitality, and cultural identity in the Dagbani tradition.

Concerning the cooking process, läbikumava typically involves an exchange of turns among participants, each taking a turn in either preparing or cooking a dish while others perform non-cooking activities such as fetching firewood. The shares time devoted to each task are determined by agreement among the individuals participating in läbikumava. As each seller of a contribution presents their part to the cooking pot, that bring comprehension of one in a multi-cooked program helping one another is express.

In the practice of läbikumava, food and time are considered interrelated rather than separate entities. The Dagbani culture prioritizes partnership and collaboration, acknowledging the relevance of joint action and mutual care in creating a sustenance and warm meals for everyone involved.