Moses Sansiman operates a popular milk bar in Kigali, Rwanda, where milk is considered a sacred beverage.
Moses Sansiman serves cold whole milk at his milk bar in the Nyamirambo sector of Kigali, Rwanda. The beverage is a cultural staple, as cows are revered as symbols of prosperity and sustenance in Rwandan society. Customers typically drink milk while sitting down as a sign of respect for the cows, and many prefer it over tea, coffee, or water due to its perceived nutritional value. However, health officials are beginning to advocate for more moderate consumption. Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, Rwanda's health minister, noted that excessive milk drinking has contributed to new health challenges in urban areas, including obesity and cardiovascular disease. While milk provides essential nutrients like protein and calcium, Nsanzimana suggests that people should balance their milk intake with more water. He acknowledged that shifting the cultural habit of heavy milk consumption is a challenge, as many Rwandans view milk as a primary source of nutrition.