UN Tourism to host Regional Forum on gastronomy tourism for Africa

The strategy to market the continent’s diverse food heritage to foreign visitors is part of a wider effort to build a Brand Africa tourism brand in collaboration with national tourism organisations. 

UN Tourism envisages gastronomy tourism as “a key driver of sustainable and inclusive development across the continent” and “presenting a unique opportunity to promote sustainable development, enhance the tourism value chain, preserve cultural heritage and empower local communities across the continent”. 

The forum in Arusha will bring together policymakers, chefs, influencers, entrepreneurs and experts to examine ways to enhance Africa’s tourism competitiveness through its rich culinary traditions. The event is endorsed by, among others, the President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, and the Minister of Tourism and Natural Resources, Dr Pindi Hazara Chana. 

It builds on the first African gastronomy tourism event held at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe during July 2024. 

A vital contribution to sustainable tourism 

“Tanzania is privileged to host the second UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, a significant event that showcases our rich culinary heritage and its vital contribution to sustainable tourism,” says Dr Chana. 

“We extend a warm welcome to all participants to discover the diverse flavours of Tanzania, engage in constructive dialogue, and explore the potential of gastronomy as a catalyst for cultural exchange and economic development.” 

According to a press release from UN Tourism, discussions will focus on strengthening the tourism value chain, fostering economic resilience, enhancing education for talent development, and driving job creation.  

Key topics at the forum include the link between gastronomy tourism and cultural heritage, the role of food tourism in empowering local communities, the power of communication and branding in promoting African gastronomy and positioning destinations on the global stage, and the potential of local food systems to enhance visitor experiences while promoting sustainability.  

The gathering will also explore synergies between tourism and agriculture to diversify local economies, encourage entrepreneurship, and integrate small-scale producers and businesses into the tourism sector. 

“By promoting policy innovation, destination branding and cross-sector collaboration, the event will help unlock new opportunities for growth and investment,” UN Tourism states. 

The African Marketing Confederation (AMC) is currently collaborating with UN Tourism on developing a Brand Africa tourism strategy.