UN Tourism to Host Second Gastronomy Tourism Forum in Tanzania
Gastronomy Forum Tanzania: 2nd Edition in Focus
UN Tourism), 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 23–25, 2025.
Building on last year’s inaugural forum in Zimbabwe, the event aims to position gastronomy tourism as a driver of sustainable and inclusive development across Africa.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasised the event’s focus on promoting “development growth and opportunities for destinations and communities around the continent.”
Key Highlights:
- The Forum, endorsed by Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Minister Dr. Pindi Hazara Chana, will unite policymakers, chefs, entrepreneurs, and industry experts to explore strategies for enhancing Africa’s tourism competitiveness.
- Discussions will address critical themes such as:
Linking gastronomy tourism to cultural heritage, empowering local communities, enhancing education for talent development and driving job creation, integrating agriculture into the tourism value chain, leveraging communication and branding to elevate African gastronomy globally, and utilising local food systems to enrich visitor experiences and promote sustainability.
Joxe Mari Aizega of the Basque Culinary Center highlighted the role of innovation and creativity in transforming gastronomy tourism and its impact on local communities.
Tanzania’s Minister of Tourism, Dr. Pindi Chana, invited participants to “explore the potential of gastronomy as a catalyst for cultural exchange and economic development.”
The Forum will showcase Africa’s diverse culinary heritage through panel discussions, case studies, and live demonstrations.
By leveraging its unique cultural assets, the event aims to strengthen Africa’s global presence in gastronomy tourism while fostering regional growth.
