Story by Peter Chivhima
AMAI’S Traditional Cookout Competition continues to grow from strength to strength, drawing participants from across the country to showcase their skills in preparing Zimbabwe’s heritage dishes.
The AMFIC Centre in Glenview, Harare, came alive this Wednesday as participants drawn from ZAOGA Forward in Faith Ministries International battled it out in the kitchen at Amai’s Traditional Cookout Competition.
On display was a range of traditional dishes that speak to the richness of Zimbabwe’s culinary heritage.
For refreshments, contestants served natural juices made from watermelon and utsiga, showcasing the value of indigenous fruits and grains.
“We are happy and proud to be here today, showcasing our God-given talents in cooking and keeping our heritage alive,” a participant said.
“It is a blessing to be here. We are showcasing our talents in cooking, celebrating who we are, and passing our traditional dishes to the next generation,” another stated.
In a powerful show of unity, congregants from ZAOGA Forward in Faith Ministries International turned out in full force, bound by a single purpose -to preserve culture and promote healthy, homegrown nutrition.
“This is more than a competition for us. We are grateful to be included because we are being equipped with the skills to preserve our heritage, honour our culture, and ensure that our traditional foods live on for generations to come,” Bishop Moses Mlambo said.
The initiative is the brainchild of the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, meant to promote the uptake of traditional foods and encourage healthy eating rooted in local produce.
“As we move toward an upper-middle-income economy, our people must be well fed, our roads must be good, and medicines must be available in hospitals. It is against this background that President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa crafted a blueprint for growth. He separated our ministry after recognising its potential to generate revenue for the country. We chose our First Lady, Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa as patron because of her unmatched passion,” Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Honourable Babra Rwodzi noted.
Winners from this Wednesday’s competition will proceed to the national competition in Kwekwe next week and this year is historic, with a dedicated church segment on the cards.
What began as a national cultural programme has grown into a global attraction, with visitors now coming to Zimbabwe to experience and taste its authentic flavours.
