Terra Madre Celebrates 20 Years of Unity and Diversity

Representatives from 120 countries gathered in Turin, Italy, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Terra Madre, a Slow Food movement that promotes unity in diversity and a network of peace, tolerance, and support.

Slow Food President Edward Mukiibi addressed the delegates, sharing his personal experience of attending Terra Madre for the first time in 2008 and how it changed his outlook as an agronomist and young farmer. He emphasized the importance of unity and diversity, stating that “our network is a network of peace, tolerance, and support.”

Mukiibi also highlighted the urgency of addressing climate, environmental, and social crises, and the need for change to start now. He emphasized that Terra Madre is not just a celebration, but an opportunity to reflect on the future of the movement and the food system.

Carlo Petrini, founder of Slow Food, emphasized the need for a cultural and political renewal, stating that “food is a key factor in the global ecological transition, it represents the common good, creating connections.” He called for breaking the cycle of multinational companies dominating food production and profiting from it.

A message from Pope Francis was read at the ceremony, emphasizing the suffering and violence affecting the Amazon and its indigenous people. Dalì Nolasco Cruz, member of the board of Slow Food and coordinator of the Indigenous Peoples Network, emphasized the importance of indigenous people as guardians of biodiversity and called for urgent change.

Partners and Supporters

The 2024 edition of Terra Madre Salone del Gusto is made possible by the support of institutions and private entities, including the main partners: Turin Chamber of Commerce, Demeter, Iren, Lavazza Group, Pastificio Di Martino, Beer Academy Quality, Reale Mutua, and UniCredit.

Slow Food Farms Program

A collection of photos and videos related to the Slow Food Farms program was produced in collaboration with TerraProject Photographers.