Post a comment 
The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and its agencies have conducted a site visit to the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre in Lungi to assess its readiness to host the 3rd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, scheduled for December 2–4, 2026.
The delegation toured the centre’s main plenary hall, which can accommodate more than 1,200 delegates and is equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual systems and interpretation booths. The team also inspected breakout rooms, media facilities and exhibition spaces to assess how they could be optimized for the upcoming forum.
The event is expected to attract tourism ministers, policymakers, international chefs and members of the global media. Particular attention was given to identifying spaces that could support immersive food experiences showcasing Sierra Leone’s rich culinary heritage, in line with this year’s “Culture and Creativity” campaign, which seeks to promote inclusive economic development through cultural assets.
Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Nabeela Farida Tunis, who secured the hosting rights during the 2nd edition of the UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in Arusha, Tanzania, last year, emphasized the importance of gastronomy tourism as a tool for cultural preservation and economic growth.
The forum, which follows successful editions held in Zimbabwe and Tanzania, is expected to position Sierra Leone among African countries using culinary diplomacy to promote tourism, culture and economic development.
According to the Ministry, preparations are intensifying ahead of the December 2026 event, which is expected to provide significant opportunities for Sierra Leone’s hospitality sector, including local chefs, small-scale food producers and cultural entrepreneurs.
The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and its agencies have also called for broader stakeholder participation to ensure the successful hosting of the forum.
The Ministry said the event forms part of its broader vision of transforming Sierra Leone into a competitive, hospitable and quality tourist destination.
“Sierra Leone stands ready to welcome the continent and the world to celebrate African gastronomy and culture,” the Ministry stated.
