Chronicle Editor
Showbiz Writer
The Munch & Sip Festival has come a long way since its modest beginnings and the growth it has experienced over the years is nothing short of remarkable.
From a humble start with only 14 attendees at the first event in 2018 at Busters Sports Club in Bulawayo, the festival has now become a significant annual celebration, drawing thousands of visitors and featuring a curated selection of 25 stall holders, each supported by a staff complement of four.
The festival’s success is not only measured by its growing attendance but also by its impact on the local community. With 16 fresh produce farmers regularly supplying the stalls, Munch & Sip has cultivated a thriving ecosystem that benefits both local businesses and the agricultural sector.
With time, the organisers have invested substantially in researching local ingredients, contributing to the festival’s emphasis on promoting regional flavours.
“The first year of Munch & Sip was not the best. We struggled, not just to get people to attend, but also to get people to take up stalls. However, we toughed it out and we’ve been able to see the growth of the festival in subsequent years,” festival organiser Mandipa Masuku told Chronicle Showbiz.
“During its first year between 2018 and 2019, two events were held: the first at Busters Sports Club and the second at Tin Cup. In those early days, 14 people attended the very first festival at Busters while 300 attended the next one at Tin Cup and only four stalls were taken up.”
One of the festival’s stand-out achievements has been its ability to provide employment opportunities. In each of the three editions held in 2022, more than 100 people were employed, showcasing the positive economic impact on the community.
“The festival attracts 150 stall applications, but there is only room for 25 stall holders for each edition with a staff complement of four while 16 fresh produce farmers supply the stalls with fresh produce regularly which cultivates the ecosystem built by the festival,” Masuku said.
Additionally, the festival has inspired similar events, indicating its role as a catalyst for the growth of the local food and drink industry.
As Munch & Sip gears up for its fifth-year celebration at the Queens Sports Grounds on New Year’s Eve, the organisers are not resting on their laurels. Instead, they are cooking up new delights to tantalise local taste buds, ensuring that the festival continues to evolve and offer exciting culinary experiences.
The New Year’s Eve edition has a spectacular line-up, including live music from South African artist Busta 929, locals — the Travellers Band and Sekunjalo Ma Africa. There will also be live cookery demonstrations by qualified chefs.
Masuku expressed her optimism for the upcoming event, anticipating a great turnout, not only from Bulawayo residents but also from neighbouring towns and cities.
“The diverse selection of food and drinks on display, including gourmet dishes, craft gins, wines, and farmer’s produce, ensures that there will be something for everyone at Munch & Sip,” Masuku said.
“The festival is the perfect way to end the year. We expect it to be a great event that will not only attract residents in Bulawayo but also those living in neighbouring towns and cities,” Masuku added.
In its fifth year, the festival not only marks a milestone but also serves as a testament to the resilience and dedication of its organisers. The vision to create a vibrant and dynamic event has not only been realised, but has also left a lasting impact on the local food industry, transforming mindsets and creating economic segments.
Online Reporter