Every year, the Harare Botanical Gardens burst to life with vibrant displays of traditional foods, cooking demonstrations, and passionate conversations about healthy living. For over a decade, the National Good Seed and Food Festival has been a transformative force, reshaping Zimbabwe’s food culture and fostering a renewed appreciation for indigenous culinary practices.

At the heart of this movement is Fortunate Nyakanda, a 50-year-old long-time attendee and exhibitor. Her journey with the festival began at its inception, and over the years, it has revolutionized her family’s relationship with food.

“I’ve been attending these festivals for over ten years, and since then, my family and I have learned so much,” Fortunate shares. “Our understanding of healthy eating and traditional seeds, which was once limited, has expanded greatly.”

The festival sparked a lifestyle transformation in Fortunate’s household.

“We’ve moved towards cleaner, healthier eating. Our diets have completely transformed, and we now have a greater appreciation for traditional foods,” she adds.

Her involvement has since blossomed into a role as an exhibitor, where she shares her culinary expertise through cooking demonstrations.

“The festival has always been a learning platform for me. As it grew, I felt compelled to give back. I started cooking at my stall to show people how to prepare traditional dishes,” Fortunate explains.

The impact of the festival extends far beyond individual attendees. Charlene Chisvo, a 35-year-old culinary chef and organizer of the cooking demonstrations, highlights its growing influence.

“The festival’s goal is to promote healthy living and teach people to cook nutritious meals at home. Traditional food is not only rich in nutrients but also in cultural significance,” Charlene says.

“I’ve seen how attendees have changed their lifestyles over the years, and the festival continues to inspire them,” she adds.

For some, the festival has also become a launchpad for entrepreneurial growth. Shuvai Mahachi, a 59-year-old businesswoman who sells traditional ingredients, has seen her business thrive thanks to her involvement in the event.

“The festival has had a huge impact on my business. I believe it has the potential to influence all stakeholders, from farmers to consumers, on the benefits of eating traditional foods,” Shuvai says confidently.

The National Good Seed and Food Festival is not merely a celebration of food but a dynamic force fostering healthier communities and revitalizing Zimbabwe’s culinary heritage. Attendees and exhibitors alike are embracing a return to traditional food systems, discovering that indigenous ingredients hold the key to both nutritious meals and cultural pride.

As the festival continues to grow, it stands as a testament to the power of tradition, knowledge-sharing, and community engagement in shaping a healthier and more sustainable future for Zimbabwe.