PORETO’s post-festival reflection paves way for stronger future

BY STEVE EPHRAEM

CHIMANIMANI – Fresh from a successful and vibrant three-day Good Food, Seed and Music Festival, Participatory Organic Research Extension & Training Organisation (PORETO) took no time in gathering its team to reflect and plan ahead.

On August 21, just one day after the event closed, the organiser and members of sub-committees came together to celebrate wins and identify opportunities to grow.

The festival drew an impressive crowd of more than 4,000 people from 73 villages and 23 wards across Chimanimani West, alongside dignitaries including representatives of the Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs, Chiefs Mutambara and Mutema, and directors from the National Seed Bank.

1022 prizes worth $14,332 where awarded to shining farmers during the festival that cost over $37,200.

By holding the meeting immediately, PORETO ensured that feedback was honest and insights were still fresh. The discussion celebrated major achievements while also taking a careful look and learning from small challenges and near-misses so that it will help improve future events.

PORETO Director Mr Julious Piti, who moderated the session, thanked all the sub-committees for their tireless work. He emphasised that reflection is not just a practice, but an act of accountability to the community and partners support the festival.

The meeting concluded with a clear and actionable strategy to make the 2026 edition even more impactful.