Online Reporter
Locadia Mavhudzi , Midlands Correspondent
THE Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbara Rwodzi, has commended the African Seventh-day Adventist (ASDA) Church for embracing Amai’s Traditional Cookout Competitions, a flagship initiative promoting Zimbabwe’s gastronomy tourism.
The cookout competitions, which have gained popularity across the country, celebrate traditional cuisine while encouraging cultural pride, diversity, and healthy living.
Speaking at the ASDA cookout competition held during the Zimbabwe Women’s Conference at the Industrial Sands campsite in Gweru on Wednesday, Minister Rwodzi said the Government was encouraged to see the religious sector actively supporting national development initiatives in line with the President’s vision of “leaving no one and no place behind”.
“This is the first church to embrace Amai’s Traditional Cookout Competition. They have partnered with the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority to promote women’s empowerment through gastronomy-focused initiatives,” she said.
Minister Rwodzi praised ASDA as an indigenous congregation that has significantly contributed to religious diversity, social cohesion, and the preservation of cultural values in Zimbabwe.
The Traditional Cookout Competitions, initiated by the First Lady, Amai Auxillia Mnangagwa, offer a platform to celebrate Zimbabwe’s culinary heritage and address food security through the promotion of indigenous food systems.
Minister Rwodzi urged women in the church to take an active role in nurturing future generations, instilling a respect for traditional food practices and local cuisine.
“Women in churches must play a vital role in raising the next generation by fostering a love for indigenous food and encouraging its preservation for posterity. By incorporating this into religious teachings, creating food-related church activities, or even starting community gardens, we can build food-secure and culturally proud communities.”
Meanwhile, ASDA Church President, Pastor Norman Chimunhu, said the church will make the cookout competitions an annual event and plans are underway to expand participation, especially among youth and children.
“We are looking forward to larger activities next year that will include mentorship programmes where experienced church women pass on culinary skills and traditional knowledge to the younger generation,” he said.
A total of 30 women participated in this year’s cookout competition, each receiving a food hamper from the First Lady as a token of appreciation and encouragement.
