Photos

African women impress me with their work ethic, and the weight of the objects they can carry on their heads.

World-wide (with the exception of Western Europe and North America) people who must carry heavy loads often choose to carry the loads on their heads, apparently for good reason. Studies on the East African women have shown that they can carry loads of up to 20% of their body weight (equivalent to a good size suitcase) for 'free', i.e. for no increase in their metabolism. Furthermore, these women can carry up to 70% of their body weight on their heads considerably more economically than their European counterparts can carry equivalent backpack loads. For example, an African woman can carry a load equal to 70% of her body weight at 3.5 km/hr for 50% less energy than an American army recruit with the same load in a backpack.

These ladies approached my jeep, asking if I would like to buy some bananas. Take my word for it, Ugandan bananas are delicious!