President Mnangagwa Champions Gastronomy Tourism at UN Regional Forum in Victoria Falls

A clarion call for innovation and strategic approach towards gastronomy tourism was made by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the inaugural UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa. The event, held in Zimbabwe's picturesque resort town of Victoria Falls from July 26 to 28, provides an international platform for experts to discuss and harness opportunities within Africa's unique culinary heritage.

President Mnangagwa underlined the immense potential gastronomy tourism holds for the economic transformation of African countries. With the continent slowly rebounding from the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, the president emphasized the low trajectory of Africa's global tourism performance. To overturn this trend, he prompted stakeholders to devise fresh and dynamic products and services that could amplify the continent's appeal as a top-tier gastronomic destination.

Acknowledging the rich tapestry of cultures, foods, and beverages across the continent, Mnangagwa proposed the development and scaling-up of gastronomy-related tour packages, food festivals, and cooking classes. These endeavors are aimed at chiseling a distinct identity for Africa in the competitive global tourism market.

Gastronomy tourism, which weaves together the exploration of food and drink with travel, has proven to be a significant player in the tourism and cultural expression sectors. Africa's array of traditional cuisines offers a potent avenue for creating tailored experiences that highlight regional flavors, sustainable practices, and community development.

The President's statements are encouraging the industry to look beyond conventional tourism approaches, urging that stakeholders truly innovate by fortifying regional cooperation and promoting local community engagement. This emphasis on gastronomy tourism not only proposes an economic lift but also champions the protection of environmental resources and reinforces cultural respect and appreciation.

During the forum, discussions revolved around leveraging Africa's exquisite natural landscapes and cultural offerings to boost tourism. The symposium has been pivotal in setting out strategies that will not only interest contemporary travelers but also ensure the conservation of the continent's gastronomic legacy.

It is expected that the dialogue and action points stemming from the UN Tourism Regional Forum will pave the way for a coherent plan focused on strengthening gastronomic tourism's role as a catalyst for growth in Africa's tourism industry. With the continent's varied and vibrant cuisines being at the forefront, this niche tourism sector serves to enhance the unique African travel narrative and bolster the economic resilience of local communities.