Omena

Omena are the sardines of Lake Victoria. These sardines were seen as a struggle meal. Almost exclusively sold by women, they were cheap to buy in bulk and stir-fry in tomatoes. I didn’t like them because it ment we were running low on food, but now I find myself craving them. They remind me of a time when my meals were not my responsibility. My mother would make sure I had something to eat even if she couldn’t. I see Omena now as sacred for it was the fish that tide us over for the week. 

Size: 11x14 oval with frame

Medium: oil

Framed: Yes