Slow Food Kenya delegates embarked on an exciting journey to Terra Madre Salone del Gusto 2024 in Turin, an event that not only celebrated food but also emphasized its role in addressing global health and environmental issues. With the theme “We Are Nature,” this vibrant gathering aimed to re-establish the relationship between humans and nature, providing an incredible platform for connecting with passionate food activists from around the globe. For five unforgettable days, delegates immersed themselves in a rich exchange of ideas and experiences, igniting discussions on sustainable food systems.
The opening ceremony featured Carlo Petrini, the founder of Slow Food, who articulated the cultural and political shift that Terra Madre 2024 represents. He highlighted the injustices and wastefulness of the current food system, emphasizing that food has been reduced to a mere commodity. Petrini called for the recognition of Terra Madre as a political entity that represents grassroots movements, committed to restoring the value of food, protecting biodiversity, and supporting local economies. His message was clear: moving forward, we must reject exploitation and intensive production, focusing on sustainable practices that prioritize education, health, and human relationships over profit.
Edie Mukiibi, the International president echoed these sentiments, stating, “We unite today as champions of the Slow Food movement, standing for those absent due to wars and injustices.” He emphasized the importance of celebrating diversity and fostering unity while calling for a transformative approach to food systems. It’s time to create a system that empowers smallholder farmers, respects migrants’ rights, and prioritizes consumer health. The commitment to action was palpable, as the gathering aimed to build a united network that confronts the injustices inherent in the current food system.
A highlight of the event was the Slow Food Kenya Cooks Alliance preparing a delightful plant-rich meal featuring green grams stew, mashed green banana with butter, and pumpkin chapati. This meal not only aligned with the Meatless Monday campaign but also showcased the deliciousness and nutritional value of plant-based food options. Participants had the opportunity to share and enjoy Kenya’s rich culinary heritage, emphasizing the importance of embracing plant-based diets for health and sustainability.
Indigenous communities from Kenya, represented by the Ogiek and Maasai, took center stage to address significant challenges such as prolonged drought, climate change, deforestation, and the commodification of communal land. They proposed impactful solutions, including the establishment of gardens to ensure diverse diets, the promotion of indigenous foods, and the practice of sustainable production methods. These initiatives not only aim to strengthen their communities but also to preserve cultural identity and tackle pressing environmental and social issues. Their rich heritage was showcased through traditional food and attire, reminding us of the deep connections between culture and sustenance.
The Gardens in Africa Network meeting revealed that there are currently 3,559 registered gardens across Africa, with 559 in Kenya, most of which are operational. This network is pivotal in facilitating experience sharing and hosts monthly webinars on agroecology to enhance participants’ knowledge and collaboration. Monitoring efforts indicate that these gardens are thriving, showcasing strong productivity, active involvement of women and youth, diverse crops, and self-sustainability.
The Slow Food Youth Network (SFYN) workshop brought together young activists from around the world to share experiences and including strategies for organizing SFYN Academies. A highlight was the SFYN storytelling night, where participants shared their personal journeys in sustainable food practices, showcasing resilience and creativity. These stories, along with diverse grassroots initiatives, emphasized the core Slow Food values of good, clean, and fair food. The workshop fostered solidarity and collaboration, inspiring youth to continue driving positive change in food systems and communities worldwide.
Terra Madre Salone del Gusto 2024 not only provided a platform for dialogue and connection but also reinforced the critical role of food in promoting sustainability, cultural identity, and community resilience. The collective commitment to addressing the challenges of our food systems is stronger than ever, marking a significant step toward a more equitable and sustainable future. As we move forward, let us embrace the spirit of Terra Madre, celebrating our diversity and working together to create a food system that honors our relationship with nature and each other.
