UN Tourism Hosts First African Gastronomy Forum in Zimbabwe, Launches New Culinary Academy

(IN SHORT) UN Tourism hosted its first Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, with support from the Basque Culinary Center and the patronage of the First Lady of Zimbabwe, Dr. Auxillia C. Mnangagwa. The event gathered 200 delegates from 33 countries to discuss leveraging gastronomy for sustainable tourism. Key discussions included funding, innovation, and promoting Africa’s culinary heritage. Highlights included the UN Tourism Regional Gastronomy Pitch Challenge and the appointment of four new UN Tourism Ambassadors for Responsible Tourism. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed to establish the Zimbabwe International Tourism Academy for the Culinary Arts. The next forum will be held in Tanzania.

(PRESS RELEASE) Zimbabwe, Africa, 2024-Jul-30— /Travel PR News/ — UN Tourism held its inaugural Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, highlighting the continent’s rich culinary heritage and its potential to boost sustainable tourism. The event, patronized by the First Lady of Zimbabwe, Dr. Auxillia C. Mnangagwa, and in collaboration with the Basque Culinary Center, attracted around 200 delegates from 33 countries, including 11 Ministers and Deputy Ministers, along with representatives from the African Union, SADC, and FAO.

Event Highlights:

• Opening Remarks: UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized Africa’s potential in gastronomy tourism and announced a roadmap for an Agenda for Gastronomy Tourism in Africa to benefit both people and the planet.
• Gastronomy’s Impact: Discussions focused on how gastronomy tourism can enhance local communities and economies, and the importance of integrating it into national tourism policies. The forum also stressed the value of collaboration among chefs, policymakers, and stakeholders to showcase Africa’s culinary diversity.

Key Discussions:

• Funding and Innovation: Participants discussed the need for effective funding, combining tradition and innovation, and promoting quality food tourism experiences. They highlighted the role of the African diaspora in global promotion and the importance of education and vocational training.
• Pitch Challenge: The UN Tourism Regional Gastronomy Pitch Challenge saw five entrepreneurs present innovative solutions. Gracia Bvute from Zimbabwe won with her project Pabvute Gourmet.
• Youth Photo Contest: Winners were recognized for capturing Zimbabwe’s culinary culture, with Nokutenda Tombindo and David Sadindi taking first and second place, respectively.

New Ambassadors and Initiatives:

• UN Tourism Ambassadors: Four chefs were appointed as UN Tourism Ambassadors for Responsible Tourism for their efforts in promoting sustainable culinary practices: Chef Yohanis Gebreyesus (Ethiopia), Chef Adenike Adefila (Nigeria), Chef Mounir El Arem (Tunisia), and Chef Carl Joshua Ncube (Zimbabwe).
• Culinary Arts Academy: A Memorandum of Understanding was signed to establish the Zimbabwe International Tourism Academy for the Culinary Arts, in partnership with UN Tourism, which will offer 100 online scholarships to nurture culinary talent across Africa.

Next Edition: The second Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa will be held in Tanzania.

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UNWTO Communications Department
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Source: UNWTO

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