In 1972 due to a political strife, I left my homeland Uganda where I was a born, and relocated to Canada. Under Idi Amin’s Uganda, there was no room for pluralism or diversity. Canada became our home, and we were grateful to many people of Kentville, Nova Scotia that welcomed our family with open arms. The congregation of The United Church in Kentville graciously furnished our 1^st home. Thank You!!!

Indian food by our 3^rd week in Canada in 1972 was greatly missed, and upon convincing the Chef at Cornwallis Inn in Kentville, my Mom was allowed into the kitchen where she made chicken curry and rice for us as well as the kitchen staff at the hotel, our temporary shelter. My mom Roshan is a great cook whom I learned a lot from. Even to this day, I will call her and ask her about many recipes that she had mastered. (Sept 17th, 2010 - My dear mom passed away peacefully with her family and friends around her - may her soul rest in eternal peace - Amen)

In 2007 I returned to East Africa with my daughter to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, and as we hiked for 7 days, the main thing on our minds at end of each day was Chakula – Food. Swahili quickly came back into my vocabulary, and the word Chakula stuck. I immediately knew I had to do something with the word Chakula and my passion for cooking.

In the past few years, as I cooked wonderful meals for my two kids, friends and family, the common question both my kids asked was “How about we open a restaurant?” My answer was always “No Restaurant”.

Many friends have frequently asked about my recipes and as I demonstrated the cooking and efficient methods to plan meals, I quickly realized the greatest issue was not in the cooking, but in the time and energy required to shop and prep. The packaging in Chakula Signature Kits will prove that anyone can make fantastic meals.

My aim and hope with Chakula Signature Kits is to provide meal solutions that are very cost effective, have minimal time requirements, are flavorsome and bring families back to the dinner table.

~Shef Hirani

Have a question for Shef? Email him at info@chakula.ca

Photos on website by: Catpiano Photography