For a long time in Rwanda, porridge has been associated mostly with women and children. Men rarely drank it, often dismissing it as a food that lacked strength or taste. Yet, what many overlooked is that porridge, which is derived from a variety of cereals, is one of the most nutritious foods and has sustained humanity throughout history.
Humanity’s bond with cereals runs deep. Historical records show that Roman soldiers relied heavily on wheat, which they used to make bread and other foods. In Rwanda, sorghum and its flour have been staples for generations. However, many Rwandans grew up drinking simple sorghum or maize porridge, which often lacked appealing flavor. This early experience may explain why porridge lost popularity, especially among men.
But change is on the horizon. In Nzove, Nyarugenge District, a new company named Golden 250 Grams Ltd has emerged with a product that is reshaping perceptions. The company produces a porridge flour called Umushonge. Those who have tried it say it is unlike any other porridge they have ever tasted.
Fighting Malnutrition Through Cereals
The Golden 250 Grams Ltd’s director, Havugimana Papias, says the idea behind Umushonge was to combat malnutrition across different groups in society and among men who spend much of their time and money on alcohol, often of poor quality, which drains their energy and undermines their ability to provide for their families.
According to Havugimana, Umushonge flour contains 98% of the essential nutrients the body needs. It is a carefully balanced mix of sorghum, maize, soybeans, peanuts, wheat, rice, beans, and powdered milk. Because of its rich nutritional content, many consider it to be as filling as a proper meal.
“We wanted to change the old belief that porridge is only for women and children. Umushonge is for the whole family. Why should someone be comfortable drinking alcohol but refuse a healthy and nourishing drink? This is not just a beverage, it is also food. One cup is enough to provide you with the nutrients you need for the day. That is why we want everyone to know about it and embrace it,” Havugimana explained.
He added that Golden 250 Grams Ltd has bigger ambitions. Beyond porridge flour, the company plans to introduce “Umushonge Bread”, biscuits, and other cereal-based products that will continue adding value to Rwanda’s agricultural produce.
Winning Over Vendors and Consumers
The product has already made a strong impression among vendors. Banamwana Amina, a porridge seller in Nyamirambo’s Marangi neighborhood, says she had been selling porridge for years, but her business grew significantly after she discovered Umushonge.
“Umushonge flour is excellent. It brought me more customers because its taste, color, and flavor are consistent every time. My customers now enjoy the porridge more, and they know my secret is using Umushonge. They are very satisfied,” she said.
Banamwana laughed as she recalled how even elderly men now come to her stand to buy porridge. Many have nicknamed it “Zahabu” (meaning “Gold”) because of its golden color and delicious taste. With demand increasing, she is now planning to prepare larger quantities to meet her customers’ needs.
Another loyal consumer is Habimana Dismas, a 70-year-old resident of Rugerero Village in Rulindo District, Northern Province. He first discovered Umushonge three months ago while passing through Nyabugogo in Kigali. He decided to try it and has since become a regular buyer.
He admitted it was already his fourth time purchasing Umushonge.
“Since I discovered it, every time I come to Kigali to buy supplies, I never leave without buying Umushonge. Even when I run out at home before I planned another trip, I take a bus just to come and buy more. No other porridge has ever impressed me like this one,” he said.
Growing Fast and Creating Jobs
Though it only began operations six months ago, Golden 250 Grams Ltd has already distributed its products to 73 shops across Kigali. The company’s next step is to expand distribution to every district in Rwanda.
Currently, the factory employs more than 60 people, most of them young men and women. It has the capacity to process over 100 tons of flour per day, making it one of the emerging food-processing businesses with great growth potential.
Havugimana emphasized that the company’s mission goes beyond profit. Golden 250 Grams Ltd wants to transform Rwanda’s perception of cereals, restore porridge to its rightful place as a nutritious and enjoyable family food, and empower communities through healthier eating habits.
As more Rwandans taste Umushonge and share their positive experiences, the humble porridge drink once neglected by many men appears to be making a strong comeback, this time as a symbol of health, energy, and family unity.
