In a remarkable feat of culinary endurance, Ugandan chef Dorcus Mirembe, affectionately known as Mama D, achieved a groundbreaking Guinness World Record on Thursday by surpassing an Irishman’s record for continuous cooking, clocking in at an impressive 123 hours and 20 minutes.
Commencing her marathon on December 23, Mama D aimed to persist until December 31, pushing the boundaries of individual cooking accomplishments.
The previous record holder for the longest cook-a-thon was Irish chef Alan Fisher, who achieved the feat in Japan earlier this year by cooking incessantly from September 28 to October 3.
Mama D’s exceptional cooking marathon has captivated the attention of many, with Ugandans pouring in to offer diverse forms of support, ranging from financial assistance to moral encouragement.
Government officials, business figures, and celebrities have rallied behind Mama D, expressing their solidarity through messages on various social media platforms. Additionally, many have physically visited her restaurant near Kampala to show their support.
Several food companies have generously contributed cooking supplies and other essential items, underscoring the widespread backing for Mama D’s unprecedented endeavor.
In an interview with Anadolu, Mama D revealed that she cooked a diverse array of dishes from across Uganda during her culinary challenge. Notably, all the food prepared during this marathon is offered for free.
Mama D expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, emphasizing that the encouragement she receives from those who enjoy her food fuels her determination.
Mama D shared her inspiration behind taking on this challenging feat, citing the rich variety of traditional foods available in Uganda. Her goal is to showcase Uganda’s culinary diversity to the world and become an ambassador for the country’s remarkable cuisine, often referred to as the “pearl of Africa.”
While Mama D awaits official recognition from Guinness World Records judges, her extraordinary achievement has already made a lasting mark, not only for her but also for Uganda’s vibrant culinary heritage.
