Tanzania to Host Second UN Gastronomy Tourism Forum for Africa
Tanzania is set to host the second United Nations Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa taking place from 23 to 25 April 2025 in Arusha.
Gastronomy tourism, which focuses on culinary experiences, is increasingly recognised as a driver for sustainable and inclusive economic growth across Africa.
The forum aims to leverage this potential to boost local economies and promote cultural heritage.
Dr Pindi Chana, Tanzania’s Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, emphasised the significance of the event, stating that it will bring together over 300 representatives from Africa and beyond.
She highlighted that the forum presents a significant opportunity for economic growth and skills development in the culinary industry, especially considering that more than 50% of Tanzanians rely on agriculture.
Participants will have the opportunity to experience a variety of dishes prepared by Tanzania’s 120 ethnic groups, showcasing the nation’s rich culinary heritage.
The event also aims to build the capacity of local chefs and diversify Tanzanian cuisine to offer tourists authentic culinary experiences.
The inaugural forum, held in July 2024 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, brought together around 200 delegates from 33 countries, including 11 ministers and deputy ministers.
Discussions emphasised the transformative power of gastronomy tourism in enhancing local communities and economies throughout Africa.
The upcoming forum in Arusha aims to build upon these discussions, exploring strategies for integrating gastronomy into national tourism policies and showcasing Africa’s rich culinary heritage to the world.
There will be a strong focus on collaboration among chefs, policymakers, and other stakeholders to create unique food tourism experiences that combine tradition, innovation, and quality.
The event will also feature the UN Tourism Regional Gastronomy Pitch Challenge, where entrepreneurs will present innovative solutions to improve the gastronomy and tourism value chains.
This initiative aims to drive innovation in Africa’s gastronomy tourism sector, fostering regional cohesion and resilience.
As Tanzania prepares to host UN Gastronomy Tourism Forum for Africa, stakeholders in the food and tourism sectors are encouraged to capitalise on the forum by investing in natural and traditional foods to maximise economic opportunities.
The forum represents a crucial step forward in advancing culinary tourism in Africa, highlighting the continent’s rich and diverse gastronomic heritage.
For more information on the forum and registration details, visit the official UN Tourism website.