Tonto (drink)

Tonto (also known as Mwenge Bigere) is a traditional drink indigenous to Uganda primarily made from bananas. It is one of several banana-based alcoholic drinks in Ugandan culture, alongside others such as Waragi (a banana-based spirit) and banana wines. Tonto holds cultural significance and is widely consumed in the banana-growing regions of central and western Uganda. ^{[1] [2] [3]}

Production Process

The production of Tonto begins with the ripening of green bananas. The bananas are placed in a pit and left to ripen for several days. Once ripened, the bananas are peeled, and the juice is extracted. The juice is then filtered to remove any solid particles and diluted with water. ^[4]

The next step involves mixing the banana juice with ground and roasted sorghum, which acts as a fermenting agent. This mixture is left to ferment for two to four days, depending on the desired strength and flavor. Tonto has an alcohol content ranging from six to eleven percent by volume, making it a mildly alcoholic beverage. The exact alcohol content can vary depending on the duration of fermentation and the specific ingredients used. ^{[5] [6]}

Cultural and Economic Significance

The production and sale of Tonto also provide a significant source of income for many families in these regions. Small-scale producers often sell the drink locally, contributing to the local economy and sustaining livelihoods. Tonto is consumed during social gatherings, ceremonies, and festivals. The drink is particularly popular in the central and western regions of Uganda, where banana cultivation is a major agricultural activity. ^{[2] [7]}

References

1. safarix (2024-06-18). "The Tales of Local Brewing in Uganda - Churchill Safaris" . Retrieved 2025-02-24.
2. Kisakye, Frank (2023-08-16). "Mwenge bigere stands out at food festival". The Observer. Retrieved 2025-02-24.
3. "The empty bag that stood upright". New Vision. Retrieved 2025-02-24.
4. "Ugandan banana beer "THE PROCESS OF MAKING BANANA BEER (Mwenge Bigere)"". Are.na. Retrieved 2025-02-24.
5. Kisakye, Frank (2022-05-10). "A few days with tonto brewer, Gyagenda". The Observer. Retrieved 2025-02-24.
6. Digital, G. L. P. (2016-06-03). "Biotechnology could remove dirty feet from Uganda's beloved beer". Genetic Literacy Project. Retrieved 2025-02-24.
7. "Chaos mars Kireka show". New Vision. Retrieved 2025-02-24.

Global Status Report on Alcohol 2004, World Health Organization, 2004.