6th Edition | National Amai’s Traditional Cookout Competitions
6th Edition | National Amai’s Traditional Cookout Competitions
May 26, 2026
The 6th edition of the National Amai’s Traditional Cookout Competitions transformed Kwekwe, Midlands Province, into a hub of Gastronomy Tourism as thousands gathered to witness Zimbabwe’s rich Culinary Heritage being celebrated through Traditional Cuisine and Cultural expressions. The prestigious competition attracted participants from Communities, Churches, Tertiary Institutions, Youths, Persons with Disabilities and Professional Chefs drawn from all the country’s ten provinces, reflecting the inclusive spirit of leaving no one and no place behind. Speaking during the Africa Day commemorations which were celebrated in style through the Cookout competitions, the Patron of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Her Excellency The First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, emphasized that the Government under the leadership of His Excellency The President Cde. Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, continues to implement Policies and Strategies anchored on the Heritage-Based Development Philosophy aimed at achieving an upper middle-income society by 2030. The competition showcased how Gastronomy Tourism has become a strategic pillar for Community Empowerment, Cultural Preservation, Sustainable livelihoods and Domestic Tourism growth while positioning Zimbabwe’s authentic cuisine as a unique Tourism attraction on the global stage.
Her Excellency The First Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa applauded the remarkable growth of Gastronomy Tourism since the inception of the Cookout Competitions in 2019, noting that what started with Chiefs’ wives has now expanded to include Men, Women, Youths, Students, Persons with Disabilities, Inmates, Churches and Professional Chefs from across the country. She highlighted the growing global demand for Zimbabwean traditional dishes such as madora, harurwa, matemba, mapfura wine and the popular “Seven Days Beer,” which continue to attract International attention during various global Tourism platforms. In recognition of her outstanding efforts in promoting Gastronomy Tourism and Culinary Heritage, the United Nations Tourism honoured Her Excellency with the prestigious title of “Queen of Gastronomy Tourism in Africa,” a recognition that continues to elevate Zimbabwe’s profile as a leading Gastronomy Tourism Destination on the continent. The competition further reinforced Zimbabwe’s growing tourism momentum which has seen the country being named among the best destinations to visit globally by Forbes Magazine, PATWA and Condé Nast Traveler Magazine, while Tourism arrivals, Domestic Tourism trips and Investments continue to register significant growth, strengthening the sector’s contribution towards Vision 2030.
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