WATCH: Matabeleland farmers encouraged to commercialise small grains production

FARMERS from Matabeleland region have been urged to commercialise the production of traditional small grains such as millet, sorghum, and rapoko as these present huge business opportunity as well as promote good health and nutrition.

This emerged during the inaugural “Good Seed and Food Cookout Festival” in Tsholotsho last Thursday under the theme: “Celebrating the Diversity and Resilience of Zimbabwe’s Food”.

The event attracted dozens of people and sought to promote the benefits of growing the traditional grains, especially in regions classified as agricultural zones four and five.

Sponsored by the Markets and Seeds Access Projects (MASAP), the festival showcased knowledge on embracing traditional grains farming, highlighting traditional seeds preservation techniques, and illustrating the economic significance of these as well as connecting local farmers with potential markets.

Among products showcased were traditional dishes and indigenous fruits made food and drinks, highlighting the region’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Local farmers and community enterprises also exhibited their culinary skills and showcased a variety of traditional seeds.

Chief Mahlathini, who was guest of honour, encouraged farmers to adopt traditional grain cultivation as a means of economic empowerment.

“I want to say to you, have an agricultural activity that identifies you here in Tsholotsho, and that is certainly growing sorghum, millet, and crops like rapoko. These crops are well-suited to our region, and by commercialising their cultivation, we can improve our livelihoods,” he said.

He contrasted Tsholotsho’s potential with other provinces, citing places like Gokwe’s success with cotton cultivation and Karoi’s success in Virginia tobacco.

“It’s pathetic that we have a chance to make money from growing our small grains, yet we hesitate,” said Chief Mahlathini. He praised the quality of the food showcased at the event, asserting that traditional African food is healthier and free from the diseases often associated with processed foods.

“The food I tasted here is not ‘junk food.’ In Africa, we don’t have junk food. What we eat today is a result of cultural adoption,” said Chief Mahlathini, strongly advocating for traditional dishes to be featured on hotel menus.

“Do away with the tendency of relying on ‘eGoli,’ Tsholotsho people. Many of you are starving because you are over-expecting support from your children and friends in South Africa. Money comes from farming, as the late Father Zimbabwe, Cde Joshua Nkomo, taught us.”

Chief Mahlathini further highlighted the loss of traditional seeds and the importance of returning to time-tested preservation methods.

“We need to practice good preservative measures for our seeds otherwise, we risk relying on cheap, unsatisfactory seeds from untrustworthy dealers,” he warned.

Meanwhile, communities were also urged to embrace modern agricultural practices, including the use of machinery for digging holes for the Intwasa/Pfumvudza model, which is designed to enhance productivity and sustainability.

Chief Goledema from the San community, who was also in attendance, said the country’s educational system should incorporate traditional cooking knowledge.
“Our vocational training centres should engage traditional cooks who possess the skills to teach our culinary traditions,” he said as he lamented the teaching of non-traditional recipes and the fashionable fast-food meals. We have changed a lot due to interactions with other cultures. While some changes have empowered us, others have diluted our traditional practices,” said Chief Goldedema.

The event also featured the Community Technology and Development Organisation (CTDO), which provided valuable insights on seed conservation. The CTDO confirmed the existence of a community seed bank in Tsholotsho, designed to safeguard traditional seed varieties.

As participants showcased their culinary talents, awards were presented to winners for their innovative traditional dishes.

The competition highlighted the rich culinary heritage of the region and fostered collaboration between farmers and market stakeholders, laying the groundwork for a revitalised local economy.

The Menziwobuhle traditional band complemented the event with their entertainment. The festival served as a pivotal moment for the Tsholotsho community and reinforced the importance of traditional grains in fostering economic resilience and cultural pride.