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Freetown is set to host the 2026 UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa from April 24th to 26th, positioning Sierra Leone as a rising destination for culinary and cultural tourism.
The high-profile event, organized by UN Tourism, is expected to bring together chefs, food enthusiasts, cultural leaders, investors, and tourism experts from across Africa and beyond. The forum aims to spotlight the continent’s diverse food traditions while exploring gastronomy as a driver of sustainable tourism and economic growth.
Far from being a conventional food festival, the gathering will serve as a platform for dialogue, innovation, and investment, highlighting how local cuisine can be leveraged to promote national identity and create economic opportunities.
Sierra Leone’s rich culinary heritage—ranging from traditional dishes like cassava leaves to its abundant fresh Atlantic seafood—will take center stage, offering participants a unique opportunity to experience the country’s culture through its food. Organizers say the forum will present Sierra Leonean gastronomy as a powerful expression of heritage, creativity, and diversity.
The event is also expected to boost the country’s visibility on the global tourism map, reinforcing efforts to position Sierra Leone as a destination that blends culture, cuisine, and hospitality.
As anticipation builds, stakeholders are optimistic that the forum will not only celebrate the taste of Sierra Leone but also inspire long-term investment and collaboration within the tourism and hospitality sectors.
