The Legend of the Clever Rat

The Legend of the Clever Rat is a story that originated on one of the islands in Zanzibar, most likely emerging out of the trading experiences of different spice merchants. It is an extension of a Swahili parable, which, translated into English means, "A rat trap traps those who are inside, and those who are outside". It is a metaphor used to explain the problems that can occur when one group of people in any society are marginalized or denied equal access to resources that are vital to their ability to continue living a fruitful and healthy life. In this story, the rat symbolizes the oppressed and challenges listeners to consider how equity can be re-imagined to ensure that all citizens have equal rights to basic needs such as food and shelter. The story also demystifies the myth held in many cultures that describes the rat as a dirty, unwanted creature. The little rat in this story emerges as a symbol of kindness, care, wisdom and intelligence, while also demonstrating the ability to find new and innovative ways of solving a problem. The lessons contained in The Legend of the Clever Rat are aligned with the UN SDG2 which endeavors to "End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture" and SDG10, which endeavours to "Reduce inequality within and among countries".