Nyashadzaishe Rushwaya
Masvingo-Great Zimbabwe Hotel chef, Zaka and Chivi representatives came out top in their respective categories in the cook out competitions winning the right to represent Masvingo Province at the forthcoming national gastronomy event.
The Masvingo Province Gastronomy competitions were held at Poly on April 8, and the national finals are slated for Gweru on Africa Day.
It was a dog eat dog at Masvingo Poly as the contest was too close to call but Ignatius Marekera of GZH came first in the professional category, in the people with disability category Fungai Timire from Chivi District emerged triumphant, and in the communities category, Winston Phillip Madzikanda from Zaka District came first place.
The competition celebrated diversity, creativity, and inclusion, with participants competing in four key categories: Communities, Persons with Disabilities, Students, and Professional Chefs. Each category highlighted unique talent, demonstrating both traditional cooking techniques and modern culinary innovation.
In the Communities Category, Winston Phillip Madzikanda from Zaka District took first place after impressing judges with his outstanding dish. Nyashadzaishe Rushwaya from Masvingo District secured second position, while Portia Gwese of Zaka claimed third place. The category reflected the strength of grassroots culinary traditions and the importance of preserving local food culture.
The Persons with Disabilities Category was equally inspiring, showcasing resilience and determination. Fungai Timire from Chivi District emerged as the winner, followed by Aida Chikwama of Gutu and Emily Sagiya of Zaka in second and third place respectively. Their participation demonstrated that gastronomy is an inclusive field where talent knows no boundaries.
In the Students Category, young and upcoming chefs showcased creativity and innovation. Tafadzwa Dube took first place, representing Morgenster Teachers College with distinction. Nigel T Nyamukapa of Great Zimbabwe University came second, while Janet Dzumbunu from Masvingo Teachers College finished third. The students impressed judges with their ability to blend modern presentation with traditional flavors.
The Professional Chefs Category delivered a high level of expertise and refinement. Ignatius Marekera from Great Zimbabwe Hotel was crowned the winner, followed by Mavis Mabiza from Reformed Church University and Florence Chifamba from GZU came third. Their dishes reflected a deep understanding of culinary arts, combining skill, creativity, and cultural authenticity.
Beyond the competition, the event served as a platform to promote gastronomy tourism and celebrate Zimbabwe’s cultural identity through food. It highlighted the importance of using local ingredients and preserving indigenous cooking methods while encouraging innovation among chefs and home cooks alike.
With the provincial competition successfully concluded, attention now shifts to the National Gastronomy Competition, which will be held in Midlands Province on the 25th of May 2026. Winners from Masvingo are expected to represent the province with pride and determination as they compete on a bigger stage.
As the winners prepare for the national event, there is great anticipation that they will continue to showcase excellence and bring recognition to their communities and the province at large.
