First UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa
UN Tourism, the Basque Culinary Center and the Government of Zimbabwe will organize the First UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, on 26-28 July 2024 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
In recent years, Gastronomy Tourism has emerged as a significant travel motivation, offering authentic experiences that resonate with the growing interest in food among travellers, who are also looking for a more profound connection with local communities during their trips. This trend presents vast opportunities for sustainable development, cultural exchange, and community empowerment. Acknowledging the pivotal role of gastronomy in tourism development, the First UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa aims to discuss the challenges and opportunities of its promotion as a key driver for Africa's competitiveness in the global tourism landscape.
Africa's gastronomic heritage is rich and diverse, yet often 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 sublimate local specialties and ingredients, inviting the world to experience the richness of African gastronomy.
In its inaugural edition, the upcoming UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa will convene destinations and international experts to explore the transformative potential of Gastronomy Tourism. Through knowledge exchange and the sharing of best practices, this forum aims to harness the power of gastronomy tourism for the benefit of local communities and the environment, fostering regional cohesion and resilience.
DAY 1 - 26 July (afternoon)
DAY 2 - 27 July
- Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) is the airport of arrival for direct flights to Victoria Falls
- For delegates attending both events in Zambia (22-24 July) and Zimbabwe (26-28 July), a complimentary transfer will be provided on 25 July at 11:00 from the Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone (meeting point) to the hotels in Victoria Falls listed on page 7 of the Zimbabwe General Information Note.
