Written by Godwin Gumbo
Reporting by K. Mangena

Scores of people from across Mangwe District’s Ward 6 gathered for the much-anticipated Sanzukwi Traditional Dishes, Seed Fair, and Horticultural Exhibition. The event, held on the 18th September 2024, brought together district-level ARDAS extension officers, farmers, home chefs, and traditional leaders to exchange knowledge on farming practices and food preparation.

On display were hearty meals prepared from traditional starches such as sorghum and millet, alongside traditional wild and domestic vegetables, meats, and assorted sauces. With over 51 exhibitors vying for the top prize, star chef Samukelo Ncube from Ward 6 Matshongwani North clinched the first place, walking away with a pick, a shovel, and a wheelbarrow. Speaking to the news crew, Ms. Ncube expressed her joy: “I am overjoyed to have been the overall winner, and now I have tools to call my own.”

Samukelo Ncube, who is also a community reporter for Radio Bukalanga, prepared the winning dish of hadza paired with millet and a delicate relish made from dried marula-flavored cowpea leaves.

Another standout exhibitor was Mr. Ndlovu, also from Sanzukwi, who drew long queues with his hadza millet dish served with pumpkin leaves in a peanut butter sauce. When asked about the popularity of his dishes, he joked: “…The judges really liked my dish, and so did the rest of the participants—I ended up not selling anything!”

Regarding the seed fair, Senior Village Head Lukuta described it as a resounding success: “…Together with the extension officers, we were able to advise farmers on drought-tolerant varieties, which aligns with the national mantra of achieving total food security.”

Adding an expert perspective, ARDAS Supervisor for Wards 5, 6, and 15, Mr. Ndiweni, emphasized the promotion of traditional grains suitable for semi-arid conditions. He also discussed essential post-harvest practices for grain preservation.

The exhibition showcased the rich agricultural and culinary heritage of the Mangwe District, leaving participants enriched with new knowledge and inspiration.