Zimbabwe Prepares To Host The UN Tourism Africa Gastronomy Forum

Victoria Falls, the thundering jewel of Zimbabwe, is gearing up for a unique event this July. From the 26th to the 28th, the resort town will transform into a culinary cauldron as it plays host to the inaugural United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Africa Gastronomy Forum.

This prestigious event marks a significant milestone for Zimbabwe’s tourism industry, placing the spotlight on the country’s vibrant cuisine and rich culinary heritage. The forum’s arrival is a testament to Zimbabwe’s recent success in promoting itself as a gastronomy tourism destination.

At last year’s UNWTO forum in Spain, a Zimbabwean delegation impressed attendees with a captivating display of the country’s culinary traditions.

This impressive showcase not only secured Zimbabwe the honour of hosting the first Africa Gastronomy Forum but also yielded a valuable reward: 100 scholarships for Zimbabwean students to pursue culinary studies.

This investment in human capital signifies a commitment to fostering a skilled workforce that can elevate Zimbabwe’s culinary scene on the global stage.

The forum itself promises to be a vibrant confluence of flavours, ideas, and cultural exchange. Renowned chefs, food experts, and tourism stakeholders from across Africa will converge in Victoria Falls to explore the vast potential of gastronomy tourism.

Panel discussions, workshops, and culinary demonstrations will delve into critical themes like sustainable food practices, preserving indigenous ingredients, and leveraging gastronomy to empower local communities. Participants will have the opportunity to network, share best practices, and explore innovative ways to integrate food tourism into their respective destinations’ offerings. For Zimbabwe, the forum presents a golden opportunity to showcase the unique tapestry of flavours that defines its cuisine.

From the hearty stews of “sadza” and relish enjoyed across the nation to the regionally specific delicacies like “rooster ko” (braised chicken) in Manicaland or “bream” fish specialties along Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe’s culinary landscape boasts a diversity waiting to be explored. The forum provides a platform to highlight these regional specialties, fostering a deeper appreciation for Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage.

Beyond the immediate benefits, the forum has the potentiaa cayst for the long-term growth of Zimbabwe’s gastronomy tourism sector. By attracting international attention and industry experts, the event can spark a wave of culinary innovation within the country. Collaboration between local chefs and international participants could lead to the creation of exciting new menus and experiences that tantalize the taste buds of discerning travellers.

Additionally, the forum can empower local communities by promoting the use of indigenous ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Tourists seeking authentic experiences can be directed towards locally-owned restaurants and food stalls, ensuring tourism revenue trickles down to thehis, in turn, can foster economic growth in rural areas, empowering local communities and ensuring the sustainability of the tourism sector. Victoria Falls, the chosen venue for the forum, offers a stunning backdrop for this culinary extravaganza. Renowned for its breathtaking natural wonder, the resort town boasts a burgeoning culinary scene.From elegant fine-dining establishments overlooking the majestic falls to vibrant street food markets offering a taste of local life, Victoria Falls caters to a wide range of palates.

The forum’s presence promises to further elevate the town’s culinary offerings, attracting a new wave of tourists seeking a unique gastronomic adventure alongside the roar of the falls.

The successful hosting of the UNWTO Africa Gastronomy Forum holds immense potential for Zimbabwe’s tourism industry. By showcasing its culinary heritage, fostering innovation, and empowering local communities, the event can position Zimbabwe as a leading destination for gastronomy tourism in Africa.

The forum can serve as a springboard, propelling the country towards a future where cultural exchange and exquisite flavours go hand-in-hand, attracting discerning travellers hungry for authentic experiences.

As the aroma of exotic spices fills the air and the sizzle of sizzling dishes mingles with the roar of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe is poised to establish itself as a culinary hotspot on the African continent.

Text by Martin Chemhere

From DESTINATION ZW EDITION 10