Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – The UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa was officially launched yesterday by President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the Elephant Hills Golf Course in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
The forum aims to promote African gastronomy, foster cross-cultural understanding, and drive sustainable development through gastronomy tourism.
“This forum is a significant step towards showcasing Africa’s rich culinary diversity and promoting gastronomy tourism as a key driver for our continent’s competitiveness in the global tourism landscape,” said President Mnangagwa during the opening ceremony.
The event has brought together thousands of participants, including traditional leaders, ministers, First Ladies, experts, policymakers, and industry stakeholders from across Africa and beyond.
Zimbabwe First Lady, Auxillia Mnangagwa, is showcasing the best Zimbabwean cuisine to the international community as the country tourism patron.
“Gastronomy is a major driver of the economy. Today, Zimbabwe continues with the awareness of our local dishes which are key to immunity and good health.
The youth should be proud of their cultural dishes and l challenge the media to take advantage of this platform to inform and promote our cultural dishes”, Auxillia Mnangagwa said.
UN Tourism Regional Director, Ms. Elcia Grandcourt, emphasised the importance of gastronomy tourism in promoting cultural preservation, economic benefits, and capacity building for African destinations.
The forum will continue until July 28, 2024, with discussions focusing on challenges, opportunities, and best practices in gastronomy tourism development.