Harare, (New Ziana) -First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa has been commended for her efforts in promoting gastronomy tourism, which is in line with the national vision to become an upper middle income economy by 2030.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Barbara Rwodzi made the commendation at the Amai’s Traditional Cook Competition held the Belvedere Technical Teacher’s College in the capital on Wednesday.
The competition attracted a diverse range of participants, including students from the Harare Polytechnic, Msasa Industrial College, the University of Zimbabwe (UZ), St Peters Kubatana, and other tertiary institutions.
“The First Lady’s initiatives have been instrumental in showcasing Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage and promoting traditional cuisine,” she said.
Rwodzi attributed the growth of gastronomy tourism in Zimbabwe to the First Lady’s efforts of organizing cookout competitions nationwide to celebrate Zimbabwe’s diverse culinary traditions and promote cultural
heritage.
“She introduced the concept of gastronomy tourism in 2019, focusing on cookout competitions at district, provincial, and national levels. This initiative aimed to promote and preserve Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage, particularly its traditional cuisine, she said.
“This competition has encouraged people to share and celebrate their diverse culinary traditions, fostering a sense of national pride and unity.”
Rwodzi added that the First Lady’s efforts have not gone unnoticed as she proved her patriotism and commitment towards the people of Zimbabwe
“In 2023, she was invited by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to participate in the Global Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in Spain and she was recognized for her championing of gastronomy tourism in Zimbabwe and the region,” she added.
In addition to promoting gastronomy tourism, the First Lady has been working to improve the lives of many Zimbabweans through nurturing youths, teaching them cultural behavior and preparing them for marriage and community life, she said.
“She has also been guiding those affected by drug and substance abuse, promoting good spirit, and encouraging communities to work together to achieve Vision 2030,” she said.
Rwodzi also encouraged tertiary students to adopt a positive mind set, similar to that of President Emmerson Mnangagwa for the country to become an upper middle income society by 2030.
New Ziana
