The Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Isdory Philip Mpango, officially opened the Second International Gastronomy Tourism Forum of the United Nations Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) – Africa Region, today, April 23, 2025, in Arusha.
In his speech, he emphasized that the government will work with local agricultural producers to implement strategies addressing climate change and invest in digital systems that connect tourists directly with authentic food producers.
He stated that the initiative will be closely linked with training local chefs, establishing community-run culinary centers, and positioning gastronomy tourism as a strategic segment of the tourism industry.
Dr. Mpango explained that gastronomy tourism is a vital part of the tourism sector, with great potential to drive economic development, cultural exchange, and community empowerment.
“Gastronomy creates a connection between our visitors and the authentic flavors, traditions, and stories of our people. In Tanzania, we are fortunate to possess a diverse and exciting culinary heritage that reflects our rich history, cultural diversity, and abundant natural resources from our land and waters,” said Dr. Mpango.
He further stated that the government intends to continue expanding new tourism products to attract a wider range of visitors, by promoting investment in beach tourism, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE), cruise tourism, cultural tourism, and sports tourism.
This also includes the establishment of restaurants that serve authentic African dishes and traditional home-cooked meals, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
In another highlight, Dr. Mpango noted that Tanzania has seen a significant increase in international arrivals, from 1,527,230 in 2019 to 2,141,895 in 2024 an increase of 40.25%.
“These achievements have been driven by strategic promotional campaigns such as the Tanzania: The Royal Tour program, which showcases the country’s natural beauty, culture, and tourism offerings. Last May, we launched the Amazing Tanzania program in China to expand our tourism market in Asia,” he added.
Earlier, while welcoming the guest of honor, the Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Ambassador Dr. Pindi Chana, said gastronomy tourism holds great potential for attracting tourists across Africa. She emphasized the need to explore how best to leverage African cuisine to draw more visitors.
She noted that celebrating the importance of gastronomy in tourism involves empowering local farmers, chefs, and food entrepreneurs to play a leading role in the food tourism initiative.
It also means implementing strategies to increase local food production, enhance food security, and improve quality standards to build trust in local culinary products.
She also highlighted the importance of fostering partnerships among tourism stakeholders to create a unique climate experience that appeals to both international and domestic tourists.
Meanwhile, the Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization, Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, said the forum is a key opportunity to put Africa on the global map, promote sustainable tourism development across Africa and beyond, explore investment opportunities, and contribute to the social and economic development of the continent and the sustainability of its food systems.
The forum brought together nearly 300 participants, including senior leaders in the tourism and hospitality sector, government officials, and culinary experts from across Africa and beyond.
