SPC -Blog -Dar
Tanzania is set to host the Second UN Tourism Gastronomy Forum for the Africa Region, which will take place from April 23 to 25, 2025, in Arusha. The event is expected to bring together over 300 stakeholders from various African countries and around the world, including high-level leaders in the tourism and hospitality sectors, government officials, and food experts.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Hon. Ambassador Dr. Pindi Chana (MP), during a press conference following a joint meeting with the UN Tourism Secretariat on February 19, 2025, in Dar es Salaam.
"Tanzania was selected to host this forum following the success of the first African Gastronomy Tourism Forum, organized by UN Tourism Africa Region, which took place in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, from July 26 to 28, 2024. The decision was based on Tanzania's request to host the event due to its rich cultural heritage and diverse traditional cuisines," emphasized Minister Chana.
She stated that the event is being organized in collaboration with the Government of Tanzania through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, the UN Tourism Organization, and the Basque Culinary Center. The forum aims to highlight the vital link between culinary culture and tourism and assess the significant role of gastronomy tourism in driving economic development, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing local communities.
The Minister further explained that the event will feature various activities, including live cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs and local talents, food and beverage tasting sessions, panel discussions, and presentations exploring new opportunities in gastronomy tourism and its economic and social benefits.
Additionally, she noted that attendees will have the opportunity to network, exchange experiences, and discuss strategies to foster innovation in gastronomy tourism. She urged local tourism stakeholders to take advantage of the opportunities that will arise from this event, including sponsorship and investment in various activities.
On her part, the UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa, Elcia Grandcourt, stated that the UN Tourism Organization is fully prepared to host this significant forum, which will showcase the diverse flavors of African cuisine to the world.
"I have already tasted some Tanzanian dishes like nyama choma and ugali, and this forum will allow us to experience Tanzania’s rich gastronomy tourism potential," said Ms. Grandcourt.
