Cookout contests lay foundation for hosting UN gastronomy showcase
ZIMBABWE is now geared to host the first-ever United Nations Tourism Africa gastronomy showcase following the resounding success of the Amai’s Traditional Cookout Competitions.
The prestigious event, to be held from July 26 to 28, will see culinary talents from across the continent converge in Victoria Falls, showcasing the vast and vibrant African cuisine.
The cookout programme is a concept introduced by First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa in 2019. Since then, the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry has been tasked to coordinate the implementation of the programme together with provinces and other line ministries.
Speaking at the Harare Provincial Cookout competition held at the University of Zimbabwe yesterday, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi said the cookout had displayed the depth and diversity of Zimbabwean cuisine, with dishes produced highlighting local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
“Tourism, as you may be aware, has evolved beyond mere holidaying and recreation. It has become an avenue for exploration, connection, and personal growth,” she said.
“In this journey of discovery, gastronomy plays a pivotal role as a gateway for understanding a destination’s culture and heritage.
“Culinary experiences have become a driving force in travel decisions, as food enthusiasts seek authentic and immersive opportunities to taste the flavours of the world. As such, tourists are increasingly seeking for destinations that offer a culinary journey alongside traditional sightseeing.” Minister Rwodzi said many developed countries relied on gastronomy as a major driver of their economies, hence Zimbabwe could also leverage on this and become the gastronomy powerhouse in Africa.
According to UN Tourism (2023) statistics, tourism revenue generated US$1,4 trillion globally whilst spending on food-related activities is estimated to account for 40 percent of the global tourism expenditure.
To this end, Minister Rwodzi said her ministry had infused gastronomy into one of the clusters identified to promote and develop tourism as espoused in the Tourism Act, which is the Culture and Heritage cluster.
“Gastronomy tourism also empowers communities by fostering cultural preservation and pride. The culinary traditions passed through generations are a vital part of a community’s heritage. It provides an avenue to showcase and preserve our values and norms, instilling a sense of pride and drawing communities closer to the roots.