SMMES EMPOWERED ON HOW AFRICAN CUISINE CAN BE UTILISED AS A STRATEGIC RESOURCE

On 28 November 2024, the Women of Value Southern African gathered Eastern Cape based SMMEs in the Food, Heritage and Hospitality sectors for at the SMMEs readiness Masterclass hosted at Mount Coke in Tyip-Tyip Centre, where the NHC enlightened SMMEs with insights on Heritage economy and tourism, with a focus on Cultural food preservation and further how our rich and diverse cuisine heritage can be a strategic resource.

The well attended masterclass was part of an inaugural Love Eastern Cape Food Show hosted by Business Pledge Collaborators and Women of Value Southern Africa in collaboration with other stakeholders, Department of Small Business Development, Eastern Cape Provincial Government South African Local Government Association and Home of Legends which will be hosted in 2025.

“Through the food show, we intend to celebrate the role of food in the expression of our rich tapestry of culture and enhancement of social cohesion, which will further how our cultural cuisine can be a catalyst for unity and peace locally, nationally and even globally, said Jacki Mpondo-Hendricks the founder of Love Afrika Eastern Cape Campaign.

Chef Andile Somdaka the renowned Executive Chef who was honoured with serving as a Private Chef for the former statesmen; President Nelson Mandela and President Thabo Mbeki shared some of Madiba’s taste the masterclass through a live demonstration of preparing his favourite meals the real South African way.

Ms Jacki Mpondo-Hendricks from Business Pledge Collaborators, Chef Andile Somdaka were part of the panel speakers including Mr Luyanda Madikizela from Buffalo City Municipality conducted a session on Compliance and Safety by SMMEs in Food and Hospitality sector; Mrs Xoliswa Majiza from Buffalo City Municipality –who empowered the foodpreneurs on Networking with industry experts and the importance of having a mentor and Mr Sifiso Ndwandwa who shared business insights on growth and innovation.

“Food and Tourism are closely linked as food plays a key role in the contemporary experience economy. The indigenous methods of preserving and preparing our African cuisine can be used to brand the various destinations which have an increased potential of strengthening local economies,” said Ms Matanato Ngwaila, from the Living Heritage and Tourism Development Unit of the NHC.

Those who wish to participate in the Love Eastern Cape Food & Culture Show may contact Ms Tumi Mkhize – 061 465 0062.