Gastronomy Tourism Takes Center Stage in Africa’s Development Agenda

The 2nd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, held in Tanzania, reaffirmed the continent’s growing commitment to using culinary tourism as a driver of social and economic development. Co-organized with the Basque Culinary Center, the event highlighted Africa’s rich gastronomic heritage and encouraged stronger cooperation among producers, chefs, entrepreneurs, tour operators, and tourism ministries.

The Forum was officially opened by Tanzania’s Vice-President, Dr. Philip Isdor Mpango, who emphasized the importance of promoting African food cultures, strengthening regional branding, and fostering sustainable practices. He pointed to gastronomy tourism’s potential to boost tourism, empower women, and support healthy food systems. UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili praised Tanzania’s leadership, noting that Africa’s culinary assets are crucial for job creation, rural development, and shaping a stronger global identity.

Over 400 participants from 30 countries took part in discussions focusing on education, policy frameworks, national strategies, and product development as priorities for advancing gastronomy tourism in Africa. To support these goals, UN Tourism announced 100 scholarships for African students through its Online Academy, aimed at building local capacities in gastronomy and culinary arts.

The event also marked the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between UN Tourism and Chefs in Africa, establishing a new partnership to advocate for and strengthen gastronomy tourism. Participants stressed the need to preserve local food ecosystems, safeguard native crops, and promote sustainable food systems, while leveraging food festivals, cultural events, and storytelling to elevate African cuisine’s global image.

As part of the UN Tourism Agenda for Africa, the Regional Forum has become a key platform for positioning gastronomy tourism at the heart of tourism strategies. Building on its success, the Forum will return for a third edition in Sierra Leone, further consolidating Africa’s culinary future.