UN Tourism Partners with Tanzania to Host Africa’s Premier Gastronomy Tourism Forum in Arusha, Empowering Local Communities and Boosting Economic Growth

Following the success of last year’s inaugural event in Zimbabwe, the UN Tourism Organization, in collaboration with the Basque Culinary Center and the United Republic of Tanzania, will host the Second Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa in Arusha from April 23 to 25, 2025. This pivotal event will reinforce the role of gastronomy tourism in driving sustainable and inclusive development throughout the continent.

A Vital Component of Africa’s Tourism Growth Strategy

Gastronomy tourism is a cornerstone of the UN Tourism Agenda for Africa – Tourism for Inclusive Growth. The sector provides a powerful opportunity to advance sustainable development, enrich the tourism value chain, safeguard cultural heritage, and uplift local communities across Africa. With strong backing from Tanzanian leadership, including President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Dr. Pindi Hazara Chana, Minister of Tourism and Natural Resources, the Forum will bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, from policymakers and chefs to influencers, entrepreneurs, and industry experts.

This gathering will focus on leveraging Africa’s diverse and rich culinary traditions to increase the continent’s global tourism competitiveness. It will also delve into the importance of sustainable practices and the role of gastronomy in preserving cultural heritage, while highlighting collaborative efforts that can help drive inclusive growth and long-term success for the African tourism sector.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “Our Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, the second in the region, celebrates the many flavors and diverse talent of the continent. We look forward to returning to Tanzania to once again bring together chefs, business leaders and public sector authorities to help make gastronomy tourism a source of development growth and opportunity for destination and communities around the continent.”

Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism from Tanzania, Dr. Amb. Pindi Hazara Chana adds: “Tanzania is privileged to host the 2nd 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. We extend a warm welcome to all participants to discover the diverse flavors of Tanzania, engage in constructive dialogue, and explore the potential of gastronomy as a catalyst for cultural exchange and economic development.”

Joxe Mari Aizega, Director General of the Basque Culinary Center says: “In its second edition in Africa, this Regional Forum serves as a key platform to drive the transformation of gastronomy tourism and its impact on local communities and the environment. Innovation, creativity, and a strong connection to the territory are fundamental pillars in strengthening sustainable gastronomy tourism—one that fosters development and strengthens regional cohesion.”

Paving the Way for Africa’s Culinary and Tourism Growth at the Second Regional Forum

The upcoming Second Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, scheduled for April 23–25, 2025, in Arusha, will bring together influential stakeholders to discuss vital strategies for enhancing the tourism value chain, promoting economic resilience, and driving job creation through education and talent development. Central to the discussions will be the connection between gastronomy tourism and cultural heritage, the empowering role of food tourism for local communities, and the significance of effective branding in elevating African gastronomy on the global stage. The Forum will also explore how local food systems can enrich visitor experiences while prioritizing sustainability. Additionally, it will examine the intersection of tourism and agriculture, encouraging entrepreneurship and the inclusion of small-scale producers in the tourism industry.

Showcasing Africa’s Rich Culinary Diversity

Africa’s diverse culinary traditions offer an unmatched opportunity to position the continent as a leading global destination for gastronomy tourism. From UNESCO-recognized culinary practices like couscous, harissa, and Ceebu Jën to the inventive use of native ingredients and compelling narratives, African cuisine reflects a vibrant cultural identity and remarkable creativity.

The Forum will highlight Africa’s culinary treasures through a variety of interactive panel discussions, live demonstrations, and case studies, providing a platform for stakeholders to share insights and collaborate. By emphasizing the role of African cuisine in regional branding, the event aims to attract international travelers while stimulating economic growth and preserving local cultural heritage.

Strengthening Africa’s Footprint in Global Gastronomy Tourism

Building on the momentum of last year’s successful event in Zimbabwe, the Second Regional Forum marks a significant milestone in UN Tourism’s ongoing commitment to enhancing Africa’s presence in the global gastronomy tourism scene. With a focus on policy innovation, strategic destination branding, and cross-industry collaboration, the Forum will help uncover fresh opportunities for growth and investment across the continent.

As Africa increasingly embraces its culinary heritage as a key asset for sustainable tourism, this event will serve as a transformative space to develop strategies that foster community pride, reinforce resilience, and promote inclusive development throughout the region.