Story by Thubelihle Mhodi
BULAWAYO – TRADITIONAL grains such as rapoko, sorghum and millet have become a significant health boost in the city of Bulawayo, following the good harvests attained this year.
Long valued as sources of nutritional carbohydrates, traditional grains are gaining renewed attention for their proven health benefits, particularly in managing conditions such as high blood pressure and bone-related ailments.
Vendors at Bulawayo’s eRenkin Market have reported a notable increase in demand, as more customers opt for traditional grain-based meals as part of healthier lifestyle choices.
“Many of our customers say they’ve switched to traditional foods specifically to help manage health conditions, a vendor said.
“Our parents mainly ate these traditional grains and lived long, strong lives. Even health practitioners recommend them for a healthy lifestyle,” another added.
Chairperson of the market, Mr Dennis Ndebele, highlighted the positive impact of traditional grains, both on health and on livelihoods.
“With the increasing prevalence of various ailments, traditional grains like sorghum, millet and rapoko are being purchased not just for sustenance, but actively to promote better health.”
The eRenkin market itself is a testament to the economic impact of traditional grains, sustaining over 250 families and creating crucial job opportunities within the community.
The government has actively encouraged farmers to capitalise on the cultivation of traditional grains, due to their nutritional value and their proven ability to withstand harsh climatic conditions.
