Sierra Leone, Angola Discuss Preparations for UN Africa Gastronomy Summit
Alusine Ahmed Kargbo Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Nabeela Farida Tunis has discussed preparations for the 3rd UN Africa Gastronomy Summit with Angola’s Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Dr Eustáquio Januário Quibato, ahead of the event scheduled for December 2–4, 2026.
The meeting, held on October 8, focused on Angola’s participation in the summit and logistical arrangements for delegates expected to attend the continental gathering.
Quibato, who is based in Conakry, Guinea, visited on behalf of Angola’s tourism minister and the country’s expected delegation to receive updates on Sierra Leone’s preparations.
Minister Tunis said the government was working with UN Tourism to ensure a smooth experience for participants, including arrangements for airport reception and transfers from Freetown International Airport in Lungi to accommodation near the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre, the summit’s main venue. The journey is expected to take approximately 30 minutes.
She also identified LIA Hotel, Gateway Hotel and Tariq’s Resort as alternative accommodation options, noting that they are estimated to be between seven and 12 minutes from the conference venue.
The main conference sessions are scheduled for the second and third days of the summit. Organisers are also planning activities to showcase Sierra Leone’s tourism attractions, cultural heritage, hospitality and investment opportunities.
Quibato commended the ministry’s preparations and thanked officials for the briefing. He reaffirmed Angola’s commitment to participating in the summit, expressing confidence that the event would strengthen cooperation among African countries in gastronomy, culture and tourism.
The 3rd UN Africa Gastronomy Summit is expected to bring together government officials, tourism professionals, culinary experts, development partners and investors to discuss gastronomy’s role in tourism development, cultural preservation, economic growth and sustainability.
Sierra Leone is expected to use the gathering to promote its culinary traditions and tourism offerings while highlighting investment opportunities and strengthening international cooperation.