Shillong, Sep 25: The Mawstep Indigenous Cafe was officially inaugurated by Sohra MLA Gavin Mylliem at Umsohphlang, Mawstep, under the Khatarshnong Laitkroh Block in East Khasi Hills on September 24.
An initiative of the Mawstep Primary Agroecology Cooperative Society and supported by IPAF-Tebtebba and LIC-HFL CSR, the café seeks to promote indigenous food systems and strengthen community-driven sustainable livelihoods.
Mylliem commended the efforts of NESFAS and emphasised the significance of promoting indigenous foods within communities, stating that tourists often prefer local cuisines over fast food.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by society, he praised their determination and passion in uplifting traditional food systems in collaboration with NESFAS. He urged members to continue working in unity through the cafe, adding that traditional food holds great value in today’s time.
He also underlined the need to preserve and protect the environment.
The inauguration brought together partners, community members, and school children in a vibrant celebration that highlighted the importance of preserving traditional knowledge through food.
As part of the LIC-HFL initiative, four partner communities from East Khasi Hills, namely Nongwah, Mawpynthymmai, Umsawwar, and Ladmawphlang took part as well, as they are prepare to set up their own ventures of the indigenous cafes.
Additionally, youth trained as nature guides under the same project participated, underscoring the project’s commitment to empowering the younger generation.
The programme also featured a special song performance by the school children of Mawstep Presbyterian LP School, SSA.
The Mawstep Primary Agroecology Cooperative Society also presented a cultural performance featuring a couplet that conveyed the message of preserving our traditional food systems.
