Arusha, a vibrant city nestled at the foot of Mount Meru in Tanzania, is set to host the Second UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa from Wednesday 23 to Friday 25 April 2025. 

Known as a gateway to iconic safari destinations and Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, Arusha provides a stunning backdrop for a gathering focused on celebrating and elevating Africa’s rich culinary heritage.

Organised by UN Tourism in collaboration with the Basque Culinary Center and the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, this edition aims to build on the foundation laid at the inaugural forum held in Zimbabwe in 2024. It will bring together chefs, entrepreneurs, policymakers, influencers, and tourism experts to explore how food can drive sustainable and inclusive tourism development across the continent.

The Secretary-General of UN Tourism, Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Our Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, the second in the region, celebrates the many flavours and diverse talent of the continent. We look forward to returning to Tanzania to once again bring together chefs, business leaders and public sector authorities to help make gastronomy tourism a source of development growth and opportunity for destinations and communities around the continent."

Tanzania’s Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Pindi Hazara Chana, emphasised the country’s readiness. “Tanzania is privileged to host the 2nd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, a significant event that showcases our rich culinary heritage and its vital contribution to sustainable tourism. We extend a warm welcome to all participants to discover the diverse flavours of Tanzania, engage in constructive dialogue, and explore the potential of gastronomy as a catalyst for cultural exchange and economic development.”

Under the UN Tourism Agenda for Africa – Tourism for Inclusive Growth, gastronomy tourism is recognised as a strategic avenue for job creation, local development, and cultural preservation. The forum will feature panel discussions, case studies, live cooking experiences, and knowledge-sharing on topics such as sustainable food systems, storytelling through cuisine, and branding African gastronomy for global appeal.

The Basque Culinary Center’s Director General, Joxe Mari Aizega, noted, "In its second edition in Africa, this Regional Forum serves as a key platform to drive the transformation of gastronomy tourism and its impact on local communities and the environment. Innovation, creativity, and a strong connection to the territory are fundamental pillars in strengthening sustainable gastronomy tourism – one that fosters development and strengthens regional cohesion.”

Discussions will focus on strengthening the tourism value chain, fostering economic resilience, enhancing education for talent development, and driving job creation. Key topics include the link between gastronomy tourism and cultural heritage, the role of food tourism in empowering local communities, the power of communication and branding in promoting African gastronomy and positioning destinations on the global stage, and the potential of local food systems to enhance visitor experiences while promoting sustainability.

The event will also highlight the links between agriculture and tourism, exploring how integrating small producers and food entrepreneurs into tourism value chains can enhance experiences for visitors and support inclusive economic development.

Africa’s gastronomic heritage, from the North African flavours of couscous and harissa to West Africa’s Ceebu Jën (considered the original form of Jollof rice) and contemporary reinterpretations of indigenous ingredients, will be celebrated on a regional stage. The forum aims to boost Africa’s visibility as a destination for food tourism and inspire new investment and innovation across the sector.

Located in North Eastern Tanzania, Arusha is the capital of the Arusha Region. The city is situated under the towering giant Mount Meru, and Mount Kilimanjaro is about 100km away. It is known as the safari capital of Tanzania, and a popular stopover for adventurers who are preparing for a Kilimanjaro trek.

Set in one of East Africa’s most iconic locations, this forum promises not only to showcase Africa’s flavours but also to spark deeper conversations on how food can shape the future of tourism on the continent.