Tanzania to host second tourism regional forum on gastronomy
Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Pindi Chana. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- Gastronomy – the art of selecting, cooking, and enjoying good food – is increasingly being recognised as a driver for sustainable and inclusive economic growth across Africa.
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is set to host the second United Nations (UN) tourism regional forum on gastronomy tourism for Africa.
The event is scheduled for Arusha from 23rd to 25th April 2025.
Gastronomy – the art of selecting, cooking, and enjoying good food – is increasingly being recognised as a driver for sustainable and inclusive economic growth across Africa.
This forum aims to leverage gastronomic tourism to boost local economies and promote cultural heritage.
At a press briefing on February 19, 2025, the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Pindi Chana, emphasised that the event will bring together over 300 representatives from Africa and beyond.
"This forum is crucial, as more than 50 percent of Tanzanians rely on agriculture. It presents a significant opportunity for economic growth and skills development in the culinary industry,” she said.
“It also strengthens our commitment to advancing education in the culinary field, both in Tanzania and across Africa," she added.
Dr Chana highlighted that the forum, to be officially opened by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, represents a significant step forward in advancing culinary tourism.
Attendees will have the opportunity to experience a variety of dishes prepared by Tanzania's 120 ethnic groups.
“We are honoured to host this forum, which will allow us to learn from global leaders in food tourism,” she said.
“Our goal is to build the capacity of local chefs and diversify Tanzanian cuisine to offer tourists authentic culinary experiences. Through this event, we also seek to explore investment opportunities that will boost gastronomy tourism in our country,” she added.
Dr Chana urged stakeholders in the food and tourism sectors to capitalise on the forum by investing in natural and traditional foods to maximise economic opportunities.
A representative from UN Tourism expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming event, highlighting the chance to explore diverse flavours from across the African continent, including Tanzania.
The first UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa was held in Zimbabwe in July 2024.
