Sierra Leone has been awarded the hosting rights for the 3rd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, a significant diplomatic and development achievement for the West African country. The event will take place in Freetown from December 2-4, 2026, following an agreement reached on the first day of ITB Berlin, the world’s leading travel trade show.
Sierra Leone was chosen following a high-level meeting between the Sierra Leonean delegation, led by Mrs Nabeela Tunis, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, and the leadership of UN Tourism (formerly UNWTO), represented by Madam Elsia Grancourt, the organisation’s Regional Director for Africa. According to officials, the decision reflects Sierra Leone’s strong presentation and readiness to meet the technical and logistical requirements of hosting such a large forum.
During the ITB Berlin discussions, Minister Tunis and her team provided detailed responses to UN Tourism’s requirements, emphasising the country’s preparations and strategic vision for showcasing its culinary heritage. “Sierra Leone is ready to show the world its rich culinary heritage,” Minister Tunis said. “Gastronomy is a powerful tool for cultural preservation and economic growth, and we are honoured to lead this dialogue for the continent in 2026.” Her remarks are part of the government’s larger “Culture and Creativity” campaign, which seeks to leverage the country’s cultural assets to drive tourism and inclusive economic development.
The United Nations Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism is a prestigious platform that highlights the intersections of food, culture, and tourism, bringing together international chefs, tourism ministers, policymakers, media, and private-sector stakeholders. Sierra Leone’s hosting of the third edition places it among a select group of African countries positioned as culinary diplomacy leaders. The first forum was held in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, in July 2024, the second in Tanzania in April 2025, and the third in Sierra Leone in December 2026.
Madam Elsia Grancourt and her team were confident in Sierra Leone’s ability to deliver a successful event, citing the country’s proactive participation at ITB Berlin and clear commitments to meeting event standards. The forum is expected to bring significant benefits to the local hospitality sector, providing opportunities for chefs, restaurateurs, small-scale producers, and cultural entrepreneurs to gain international exposure.
As preparations get underway, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs invites domestic stakeholders, the private sector, and international partners to work together to plan and execute the forum. According to officials, the 2026 Gastronomy Forum represents not only an opportunity to highlight the distinct flavours of the “Lion Mountain,” but also an opportunity to build long-term tourism-led economic growth for Sierra Leone and the African continent.
