The project INCrease aims for the integration of Indigenous and Neglected crops in food systems through innovations based on indigenous foods.

On 27 November, Prof. Kolanisi and team presented the Agrifood Tourism & Indigenous Food Innovation Initiative to the stakeholder meeting, hosted by the Inkosi Mtubatuba Local Economic Development (LED) and Tourism Forum. This concept is closely aligned with the INCrease project, introducing stakeholders to the  Agrifood Tourism & Indigenous Food Innovation Initiative  proposed model. Her team aims to advance this initiative early next year.

In the meantime, the team is currently documenting the data to further inform the model in preparation for implementation. During the session, Prof. Kolanisi emphasised the strategic importance of strengthening agrifood value chains particularly the segment leading to the plate within food service industries as well as the local tourism at household level that could be based on gardening tours, given KwaZulu-Natal’s strong tourism landscape. Her contribution positioned indigenous food innovation as a key driver for local economic development and sustainable tourism.