Tanzania to host second Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa in April 2025

TANZANIA – Building on last year’s success in Zimbabwe, the UN Tourism Organization has teamed up with the Basque Culinary Center and Tanzania to host Africa’s Second Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in Arusha from April 23-25, 2025.

The Second Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, set for April 23–25, 2025, in Arusha, will convene key stakeholders to explore strategies for strengthening the tourism value chain, fostering economic resilience, and creating employment through education and talent development.

Discussions will center on the link between gastronomy tourism and cultural heritage, the role of food tourism in empowering local communities, and the impact of branding in elevating African cuisine on the global stage.

The Forum will also assess how local food systems can enhance visitor experiences while emphasizing sustainability, as well as examine the intersection of tourism and agriculture, encouraging entrepreneurship and integrating small-scale producers into the tourism sector.

Africa’s rich culinary diversity presents a unique opportunity to position the continent as a premier global gastronomy tourism destination.

With UNESCO-recognized culinary traditions such as couscous, harissa, and Ceebu Jën, as well as the innovative use of indigenous ingredients and compelling food narratives, African cuisine embodies both cultural authenticity and creativity.

The Forum will showcase Africa’s culinary excellence through interactive panel discussions, live demonstrations, and case studies, providing a collaborative platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas and best practices.

By underscoring the role of African cuisine in regional branding, the event seeks to attract international travelers, drive economic growth, and safeguard cultural heritage.

Gastronomy tourism plays a central role in the UN Tourism Agenda for Africa – Tourism for Inclusive Growth, offering a pathway to sustainable development while preserving traditions and empowering local communities.

With strong support from Tanzanian leadership, including President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Dr. Pindi Hazara Chana, Minister of Tourism and Natural Resources, the Forum will bring together policymakers, chefs, influencers, entrepreneurs, and industry experts to shape the future of gastronomy tourism in Africa.

The event will highlight how Africa’s diverse culinary traditions can boost the continent’s tourism competitiveness while addressing sustainability and heritage preservation.

Through collaboration, the Forum aims to drive inclusive growth and ensure long-term success for the African tourism sector.

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