By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Harare Metropolitan Province was transformed into a vibrant showcase of flavour, culture, and innovation as the 2026 Amai’s Traditional Cookout Competition celebrated the richness of Zimbabwe’s culinary heritage.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, reaffirmed that the tourism sector is firmly anchored on Vision 2030, under His Excellency President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, and guided by the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS 2), with a strong focus on inclusivity, devolution, and the principle of leaving no one and no place behind.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Deputy Minister Tongai Mafidi Mnangagwa
Minister Rwodzi paid tribute to the Tourism Patron, the First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, who pioneered the Cookout initiative in 2019. What began as a passion project has since grown into a cornerstone of gastronomy tourism, promoting Zimbabwe’s heritage-based economy, national fabric, and cultural identity.
The First Lady’s dedication has earned her global recognition as the Queen of Gastronomy, as well as Cultural and Heritage Ambassador from UN Tourism and UNESCO.
The Minister highlighted tourism as a powerful tool for soft diplomacy, pointing to increased arrivals from key markets such as the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The sector now contributes approximately US$1.3 billion to the fiscus and accounts for 10% of GDP growth.
Zimbabwe’s rising global stature was also underscored, with accolades including recognition by Forbes Magazine as the World’s Number One Must-Visit Destination in 2025, as well as the “Destination of the Year – Natural Wonders” award from PATWA at ITB Berlin 2026.
Zimbabwe Tourism Authority CEO George Manyaya
The competition itself was a feast of creativity and tradition. Dishes such as cassava sadza, madora and matemba pies, alongside tamarind juice, hute wine, and mapfura wine, reflected a cuisine that is both authentically cultural and health-conscious.
Beyond the plate, the programme continues to transform lives across communities, empowering women, youth, students, and persons with disabilities. Many participants have since established their own food businesses, turning culinary passion into sustainable livelihoods.
The event culminated in the awarding of top winners across all categories, celebrating not only culinary excellence but also the enduring spirit of community empowerment.
#Amai’sTraditionalCokout2026
#ExperienceZimbabwe
#NhakaYedu
#IlifaLethu
#OurHeritage
#ZimBho
About Author
