PORETO Seed and Food Fair connects farmers with their roots 

BY STEVE EPHRAEM 

Exciting opportunities await farmers connected to the Participatory Organic Research Extension & Training Organisation (PORETO), a non-profit organisation dedicated to sustainable farming.

These farmers have made a powerful commitment to protect their seed and food heritage by continuing to grow traditional small grains using organic methods. Their efforts are helping to spread the principles of agroecology in Chimanimani. 

This week, PORETO will host a vibrant Good Seed, Food and Music Festival from August 18 to 20 at Chakohwa High School in Chimanimani. Over 4,000 farmers are expected to attend this special event, which carries the meaningful theme: “Nurturing Our Seeds, Reviving Our Heritage.” The fair will be officially opened by the Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, on Wednesday. 

During a pre-event meeting held at the venue today (August 17), farmers shared their enthusiasm for passing on their knowledge to the next generation. PORETO Director, Mr Julious Piti, who led the discussion, encouraged everyone to take personal responsibility for preserving their heritage. 

“The mistake many people make is thinking that traditional leaders alone should safeguard our culture. That’s a serious error. Cultural preservation starts with each individual in his/her own home before reaching out to traditional leaders. Only then can we truly nurture our seeds and protect our heritage,” he said. 

The fair promises engaging activities, including a farmers’ dialogue on August 18, hosted by the well-known TV presenter, Amai Rebecca Chisamba. On August 19, farmers will proudly display their traditional seeds and foods, celebrating their rich agricultural legacy. The event will close on a high note with a performance by gospel star Dorcas Moyo on August 20, adding a joyful celebration to this important gathering. 

This fair is more than just an event but a movement to reconnect farmers with their roots while passing on the baton to the youth.