TANZANIA is set to host the second United Nations Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, with over 300 participants from across the continent expected to attend.

Gastronomy tourism, also known as culinary or food tourism, is travel that focuses on experiencing a destination's food and drink. It's a growing part of tourism and involves a variety of activities, including cooking classes, food festivals, and market visits.

Dr Pindi Chana, Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, announced this in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday, stating that the decision to host the event followed recognition of Tanzania’s reputation for its traditional foods during the first forum.

The event is scheduled to take place in Arusha from 23rd to 25th April this year, the minister confirmed.

Dr Chana emphasised that Tanzania looks forward to learning from other nations’ experiences in promoting gastronomy tourism, highlighting that the forum marks a significant milestone for the country. Local chefs and stakeholders are expected to benefit as Tanzania prepares to showcase its rich culinary heritage.

“We are honoured to host this forum which will provide us with an excellent opportunity to learn from global leaders in food tourism. With over 300 participants, this event will help us build the capacity of our chefs, enabling them to diversify local cuisines and offer tourists authentic Tanzanian dishes. We also aim to explore the opportunities that will arise from this forum to better promote gastronomy tourism in our country,” she said.

She further noted that fostering a strategic approach to tourism growth remains a key focus, citing the role of UN Tourism in shaping global tourism policies, promoting sustainable tourism, and fostering economic development through the sector.

In her remarks, Elcia Grandcourt, UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa, recalled that in 2022, Tanzania hosted a significant institutional meeting, the Regional Commission for Africa, and is now set to host another major event.

She pointed out that the upcoming forum will not only showcase Tanzania’s rich and diverse culinary flavours but also highlight gastronomic traditions from across the region.

“I have already had the chance to taste some of the dishes mentioned by the minister, from Nyama Choma to Ugali,” she said.

“We are excited to showcase these local favourites and eagerly anticipate introducing other flavours from neighbouring countries in the region.”

Africa’s gastronomic heritage is both rich and diverse, yet it remains largely overlooked by tourists. Its flavours tell stories of cultural traditions, from ancient recipes to modern innovations. African cuisine reflects a fusion of influences, merging ancestral recipes with the creativity of chefs who refine local specialities and ingredients, inviting the world to experience the richness of African gastronomy.

The upcoming UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa is expected bring together key destinations and international experts to explore the transformative potential of gastronomy tourism.