Tapiwa Guzha, a Zimbabwean-born hedonist now thriving in the vibrant scenery of Cape Town, embodies the belief that a diverse life is a life well-lived. This generalist extraordinaire, with interests spanning from food and rope bondage to molecular biology, is on a quest to tinker, taste, and transform every possible facet of the human experience. Yet, one of the most profound expressions of his creativity is found in the realm of ice cream—a medium he uses to weave together the rich tapestry of African culture.
Guzha’s entrepreneurial venture, Tapi Tapi, launched in February 2020, is far more than just an ice cream brand; it’s a cultural movement encapsulated in a scoop. Despite launching during a challenging period for businesses, Tapi Tapi quickly captured the hearts—and taste buds—of the people in the Western Cape. Guzha has created over 600 unique ice cream flavors that push the boundaries of what we think of as dessert, bringing in a fresh perspective as bold as it is tantalizing.
Guzha crafts flavors that transport you, like his baobab ice cream, with its bright, tangy notes reminiscent of a sun-drenched African savanna, or his edible clay flavor, which carries an earthy, mineral richness. His creations, such as ice cream flavors from baobab, edible clay, and mopani worms, might sound like a wild culinary playground, but in his capable hands, these components become memories steeped in African folklore and tradition. Each scoop is a narrative, a spoonful of history. For instance, the mopani worm ice cream, with its subtly nutty and smoky flavor, evokes the tradition of harvesting these protein-rich insects, a practice passed down through generations. The ice creams are vessels of heritage, and each flavor speaks to the shared human experience that ties us all together, regardless of where we come from.
What truly sets Guzha apart, however, is the mindfulness behind them. Tapi Tapi stems from a daring self-imposed challenge—an experiment that started in July 2018 and has evolved into a storytelling vehicle for the diverse narratives woven through African culture.
But how does one go from the world of academia—where Guzha dived deep into molecular biology and earned a PhD in biotechnology—to creating revolutionary ice cream? The transition is as deliciously complex as the flavors he creates. Tapiwa began experimenting with dry ice, turning the traditional ice cream-making process on its head. This method allowed him to create smoother, tastier ice cream in record time, eliminating the wait for the perfect treat without compromising on quality. The implications of science and flavor meld seamlessly in his creations, resulting in an ice cream experience that stands distinct in the culinary realm.
Tapi Tapi is very much a reflection of Guzha’s journey, showcasing a fusion of hard-earned knowledge and raw passion. What started as a direct-delivery service soon blossomed into pop-up tasting experiences that allow people to engage intimately with the vibrant food practices from across Africa. Each customer leaves having experienced something truly unique, often raving about the flavors that dance upon their tongues and the stories that linger long after the last scoop. "I wanted to create more than just ice cream," Guzha explains, "I wanted to create a conversation, a way to connect people to the stories and traditions of Africa."
In a world yearning for connection and authenticity, Tapiwa Guzha and his Tapi Tapi ice cream are a celebration of diversity, of culinary art, and of our shared humanity. So, whether it’s the spicy kick of chili ice cream or the sweet echoes of toffee mingling with the earthiness of dried blackjack leaves, the exploration of flavors at Tapi Tapi beckons to every adventurous soul. Tapi Tapi ice cream is available at pop up locations throughout Cape Town, and information about where the next pop up will be is available on their website. Many people have expressed surprise at the unique flavors, with some calling the experience "a revelation". The baobab flavor, in particular, is a popular choice.
