Fast Food Culture Raises Health Concerns as Tanzanian Entrepreneur Offers Natural Alternative

In Dar es Salaam, the proliferation of fast food restaurants offering crispy chicken and chips has become increasingly popular, with major malls hosting international franchises that locals are willing to pay premium prices to enjoy.

However, Michael Mwakilasa, who lived in the US for over 40 years, warns that these foods have been detrimental to communities for decades. Unhealthy food is the leading cause of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases among affected populations.

"The fast food people in Tanzania are so proud to buy is actually cheap in the US and meant for low-income communities. You can get all the chips and chicken for $3.99," he said.

When Tanzanians arrive in the US, many are eager to try famous American fast food brands seen in movies, unaware that this junk food is the leading cause of obesity and various health ailments. Within months, the effects of greasy burgers and excessive chips consumption become visible, from increased waistlines to weight gain, making individuals another statistic of poor health choices.

This familiar story has trapped many in the Tanzanian diaspora, as frequent fast food consumption leads to chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes and heart disease, costing the United States millions of dollars and burdening its healthcare system, insurers, and taxpayers.

As a businessman and investor, Mwakilasa has lived in almost all 50 states. He travels back to Tanzania at least twice annually to oversee numerous investments established over the years.

The annual Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair has proven a vital avenue for seeking investment opportunities. During one visit, he encountered Sulaiman, who was mixing ground ingredients into powder and selling food supplements. With experience in the supplement industry, Mwakilasa’s interest was piqued.

After a lengthy conversation, he purchased 20 bags to take back to America, but friends and family claimed them all. He contacted Sulaiman for more supplies, recognizing the product’s high demand and investment potential.

Tanzania is blessed with abundant herbs, plants, seeds and fruits that support the body’s immune system, digestive health and blood sugar regulation. These traditional health resources could restore communities devastated by poor food choices, including areas with substantial Tanzanian and diaspora populations.

From soursop, moringa, turmeric, and hibiscus to many more, these readily available Tanzanian herbs are highly sought in the West and profitable. Western consumers are increasingly recognizing African plants’ potential health benefits, backed by numerous scientific studies.

Mwakilasa seized this opportunity to invest in dietary supplements targeting Tanzanian, African diaspora and African American communities.

At a Tanzanian diaspora convention in Texas, he introduced his product, which quickly sold out. He now offers AfyaLishe, a powerful blend of 28 herbs, seeds and spices sourced from Tanzania for the American market.

After receiving clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration for his plant-based food, seeds and spices, many clients have attested to its health benefits.

"That is not enough to maintain good health. Parents should take a leading role in guiding their children to choose healthier foods. I have done that with my children," he said. "You are what you eat."

Mwakilasa has long exported Tanzanian products to the US, including dried sardines, honey and coffee. With his plant-based supplements, he conducts the entire production process in Tanzania, using local labor and employing young Tanzanians. He is among the few diaspora members selling Tanzanian products in the world’s largest economy.

The venture is working to place Tanzanian products in American health stores. The official US launch occurred at Invest Fest, the annual entrepreneurship festival in Atlanta, Georgia, which brings together investors, business educators, and entertainment under one roof.

Before an audience exceeding 10,000 people, he presented his Tanzanian product to African American consumers with significant purchasing power.

"Unfortunately, even with unhealthy eating habits, some people choose not to exercise. Having physical activity even for 15 minutes daily can be very beneficial to health," he stated. Poor health results from many factors beyond food, including stress and depression.

Depression increasingly affects communities and families facing financial strain, with overworked parents juggling multiple jobs to earn a decent living.

Recognizing this, Michael uses his plant-based product not only to serve diaspora and communities but to advocate for lifestyle change.

"You have to start sleeping right, eating right and thinking right," he added. Online platforms help guide, engage and support those seeking healthier food choices, active lifestyles and positive change.

This call to action comes at a crucial time when ultra-processed food remains cheaper and often the only viable option for low-income households.

He has received encouraging feedback from Tanzanians in the diaspora and others who have improved their diets, reduced junk food consumption, increased activity, and used his supplement.

"A lady called me saying she puts the supplement in her kids’ pancakes and over time has seen improvement," he said.

Mwakilasa remains committed to investing in Tanzania as he has for decades. He hopes improved collaboration and engagement with the Tanzanian government will facilitate diaspora investment diversification in the country.