Chapter 167: Tableware
In the communal canteen of Dar es Salaam, European newcomers were undergoing a rather challenging lesson in using chopsticks, taught by Layton. Layton demonstrated the intricate techniques of handling chopsticks to the German immigrants.
He began by instructing them to stretch out their middle fingers, slightly bending them and using their middle finger's upper section as a pivot. Layton emphasized that this part of the finger was crucial, as it determined their ability to manipulate these tableware tools effectively. Then, he had them stick out their index fingers and thumbs, demonstrating the entire process step by step.
Layton showed how to place the first wooden bar on the ring finger, the second on the first joint of the middle finger, and then pinch the top with the thumb and index finger. He emphasized that the pad of the thumb should also press on the first wooden bar. This way, the first wooden bar remained stable while the thumb, index finger, and middle finger worked in unison to manipulate the chopsticks. He assured them that mastering this skill would enable them to handle all kinds of food in East Africa.
However, Layton clarified that the East African government provided only chopsticks, as they were cost-effective compared to providing knives, forks, and spoons. While Europeans, especially in the German region, mainly used spoons for eating in this era, East African cafeterias adopted chopsticks to save costs.
The choice to use chopsticks in East African canteens was not made by Ernst but by the individuals in charge of the canteens. They took inspiration from Chinese immigrants, combined with Ernst's hygiene campaign in East Africa and the low cost of producing chopsticks.
While immigrants could bring their tableware to the cafeteria, the rule was clear: eating with hands was prohibited to prevent food waste. Immigrants could either choose to use their tableware or the chopsticks provided by the canteen. If someone preferred knives, forks, or spoons, those were available for the staff in charge.
Most European immigrants who came to East Africa brought their meal companions, but some impoverished immigrants may have lacked basic tableware, and some may have retained the medieval "finger food" habits. Those who found it challenging to adapt to chopsticks had the option to create their tableware over time.
The canteens in East Africa offering chopsticks were mainly located in major rice-producing areas, such as the eastern coast and the Great Lakes region. Wheat-producing areas, more inland, had canteens serving scones, bread, and similar foods, so the need for chopsticks was relatively low.
Chopsticks served as transitional tools for European immigrants who initially lacked tableware. They had the opportunity to construct their tableware or choose alternative options once they were more settled.
Interestingly, while European immigrants were adapting to using chopsticks, Chinese immigrants in East Africa remained steadfast in their use of their traditional tableware, influenced very little by European practices. This demonstrated the cultural diversity and dynamics within the region.