On the occasion of the 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, the organization called “Impact Her Nagaland” which was started by a group of Lotha mothers is opening a stall named “Slow Food Kitchen” at this year’s Hornbill Festival. IHN is a group of like-minded mothers who have come together with a shared mission, driven by the belief that empowering rural women can create a brighter, more dignified future for all. Impact Her Nagaland seeks to help rural women achieve economic self-reliance while educating them about their basic rights. IHN's main goal is to ensure that they live with dignity and honour.
President, Zanbeni Yanthan informed that Impact Her Nagaland was formed on 8th March 2024 (International Women’s Day). Its headquarter is based at Sanis under Wokha district.
In addition to economic empowerment, this initiative will focus on organising free medical camps, educating women on their legal and fundamental rights, and addressing environmental issues that impact rural communities.
It believes that empowering rural women and girls is the key to building a stronger, more empowered society. The stall is showcasing a diverse range of authentic Lotha cuisines made from fresh produce sourced directly from women farmers in Nagaland. It is reported that parts of the proceeds from the stall will be reinvested into the mission of empowering rural women farmers.
Though the “Slow Food” movement was founded in Italy, it corresponds with the food culture that the Nagas practice. It follows the same goals, some of which include preserving local food traditions and culture, promoting sustainable foods, as well as promoting small and local farmers and their businesses.
At “Slow Food Kitchen” every dish is prepared by using all the local ingredients sourced from women farmers from far and near. It strives to give our visitors an immersive experience, not just to their palates, but to also discover the culture, traditions and heritage of the Nagas through food.
(Nongozo Rikha, Asst. Director)
