The Second International Forum on Culinary Tourism, hosted by the UN Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) for the Africa region, officially opened today, April 22, 2025, in Arusha, Tanzania.
The highly anticipated event is set to bring together more than 300 participants, including senior leaders from the tourism and hospitality sectors, government officials, and renowned culinary experts from across Africa and around the world.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Gran Melia Hotel in Arusha, Tanzania’s Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Hon. Ambassador Dr. Pindi Chana, highlighted the forum's significance.
“This event seeks to spotlight the critical connection between culinary heritage and tourism,” said Dr. Chana.
“It also aims to evaluate the impact of culinary tourism in fostering economic development, preserving cultural identity, and enhancing community livelihoods.”
The forum is organized in collaboration with the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, UN Tourism, and the Basque Culinary Center.
The official opening ceremony is scheduled for April 23, 2025, with the Vice President of Tanzania, Hon. Dr. Philip Isdor Mpango, expected to officiate as the Guest of Honour.
Dr. Chana emphasized that the forum offers Tanzania a unique platform to showcase its rich culinary heritage, rooted in the diverse traditions of over 120 ethnic communities.
“This event will play a strategic role in promoting culinary tourism as a new frontier in our tourism industry,” she noted.
“By expanding our tourism offerings and encouraging longer stays by international visitors, we can significantly boost tourism’s contribution to the national economy.”
The Minister also extended an open invitation to all stakeholders in the tourism and culinary industries, as well as the general public, to participate actively in the forum and support the growing concept of culinary tourism as a vehicle for sustainable development and national branding.
Echoing her sentiments, Ms. Elcia Grandcourt, Director of the Africa Department at UN Tourism, emphasized the importance of the forum in boosting rural tourism and safeguarding traditional food cultures.
“This is a remarkable opportunity for Tanzania and Africa as a whole to showcase its culinary potential on the global stage,” said Grandcourt.
The forum will host an array of distinguished international guests, including UN Tourism Secretary-General Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili and the First Lady of Zimbabwe, Dr. Auxillia C. Mnangagwa.
