Two days of events in Harare celebrated “Italian Cuisine Week Around the World.” The Italian Embassy in Zimbabwe placed particular emphasis on showcasing Italian production chains and exploring the regions and places of origin of Italy’s culinary traditions, with a view to fostering tourism development and promoting Italy’s agri-food heritage—one of the hallmarks of our exports.
A dinner prepared by Michelin-starred chef Niccolò Palumbo was attended by representatives of the Zimbabwean government, including Minister of Tourism Barbara Rwodzi, Minister of Culture Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe, and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Albert Chimbindi.
Through his creations, the chef took guests on a journey to discover Italy’s regions, their culinary traditions, and the value of local ingredients—an expression of the quality and biodiversity that characterize the nation’s food and wine heritage. The program of events also included two masterclasses led by Chef Palumbo alongside his sous-chef, Andrea Caciolli. The initiative was open to students from various universities and professionals in the hospitality sector, offering them an opportunity for learning, discussion, and sharing.
Finally, it was announced that, from November 18 to 25, the embassy will organize “Italian Breakfast Week,” featuring special menus created by Chef Palumbo in collaboration with the restaurant Cafe Nush.
Italian Ambassador Giuseppe Giacalone emphasized that “Italian cuisine is a national treasure, a symbol of our country, and an integral part of our identity.” The Head of Mission also noted: “Our gastronomy represents an economic and cultural pillar on a global scale. Italy exports agri-food products worth approximately 70 billion euros every year,” he emphasized. “The national food industry alone generates revenue of 204 billion euros. The entire national supply chain is worth over 538 billion euros, and Italy is Europe’s leading economy in terms of value added in the agricultural sector.”
“Through this event,” the diplomat continued, “we aim to provide an important opportunity to showcase our intangible cultural heritage and to promote opportunities for collaboration in Zimbabwe.”
Among others, the Italian Trade Agency (ICE), the Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles hotel, and various sponsors collaborated on the organization of the two-day event.
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Dining and Cooking