Slow Food Uganda joined the rest of the world to celebrate the International Biodiversity Day by launching a campaign called Eat Local. The Eat Local campaign, designed by Slow Food Uganda, aims to promote the consumption of local food and advance the work of food producers and entrepreneurs who prioritize the use of locally sourced ingredients. This campaign is part of Slow Food’s broader mission to promote and protect culinary traditions and local food biodiversity.

The campaign seeks to achieve several important goals which include supporting local farmers, as their hard work and dedication in cultivating the land are crucial for a sustainable agriculture and empowering entrepreneurs, such as restaurants and food vendors, who prioritize the use of locally sourced ingredients.

This campaign is an opportunity to celebrate the great flavours, cultural diversity, and positive impact of consuming local food. It encourages individuals to embrace the richness of Uganda’s biodiversity, support local communities, and experience the true essence of Ugandan cuisine.

The main objective of the Eat Local Campaign is to raise awareness about the importance and benefits of supporting local food consumption and to educate and empower consumers to make informed decisions about their food choices.

Through this campaign, Slow Food Uganda aims to increase awareness of the importance and benefits of consuming local food among the general public, coupled with increased adoption of local food by businesses to encourage consumer preference for local options. Additionally, the campaign aims to foster community engagement and participation through interactive initiatives like challenges and social media campaigns, where individuals actively share their experiences and support local food consumption, thereby empowering more consumers to make informed decisions about their food choices by accessing information on the freshness, nutritional value, and support for local farmers.

The Eat Local campaign will be about getting people to support and promote local food consumption. This will be done through encouraging people to support local businesses that provide local food, like restaurants, farmers’ markets, and other local food vending businesses. We’ll use TV and radio talk shows to educate and raise awareness about the importance of eating local. We’ll also have a challenge where people can share pictures of the local food they’re eating on social media using the hashtag #EatLocal. This will inspire and encourage others to join in and support local food businesses too.

To spread the message of eating local, we will publish articles both online and in newspapers and magazines. These articles will help us share information about the benefits of supporting local farmers and agroecological entrepreneurs. We will write about their work and highlight their contributions to the community. Through this, we hope to raise awareness and appreciation for the hard work and dedication of these individuals.

WHY THE EAT LOCAL CAMPAIGN?

The campaign will be a powerful way to connect people with nature and promoting biodiversity.

It will work to support local farmers: When you enjoy meals made with local ingredients, you directly support the hardworking farmers who cultivate the land with care and dedication. By purchasing their produce, you contribute to a sustainable and a just food system.

It will be a tool to showcase the unique tastes, spices, and traditions that make the local cuisine outstanding.

It will be a means to promote environmental sustainability: Eating local is an act of environmental sustainability through reducing the distance food travels which helps us to minimize transportation emissions and contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet.

It will be a tool to empower entrepreneurs: The Eat Local campaign is committed to empowering local entrepreneurs, including restaurants, food vendors, and other culinary innovators who prioritize the use of locally sourced ingredients which is key in fostering economic growth, create jobs, and preserve our food heritage.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO SUPPORT THE CAMPAIGN?

Choose Local: When dining out or ordering food, opt for establishments that prioritize local ingredients. Look for the places where local food is sold, which signifies a commitment to supporting local farmers and celebrating Ugandan cuisine.

Explore Farmers’ Markets: Discover the diversity and abundance of locally grown produce and products at farmers’ markets including the Slow Food Earth Markets across Uganda. Engage with farmers, artisans, and food entrepreneurs who are at the heart of our local food system.

Spread the Word: Share your love for local food on social media, using the hashtag #EatLocal. Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to join the movement and experience the vibrant flavors of Uganda.

Support Local Initiatives: Participate in events, workshops, and educational programs organized by Slow Food Uganda and other like-minded organizations.