Vice President Muhammed BS Jallow has called for stronger linkages between agriculture, food production and tourism, saying the sectors hold huge potential to create jobs, expand markets for local producers and improve livelihoods.
He made the call on Friday at the opening of the eighth edition of the West African Food Festival (WAFFEST) 2026 at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo.
Speaking on behalf of President Adama Barrow, VP Jallow said culinary heritage must be leveraged to promote tourism, empower local businesses and strengthen regional cooperation.
He stressed the need to establish reliable markets for farmers, fishermen and food processors while investing in skills development and business opportunities for women and young people.
The Vice President also challenged Gambian chefs to defend the country’s Jollof Rice championship title, commending the Gambia Chefs Association for its outstanding performance at the 2025 edition.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to promoting tourism, hospitality and the creative industries as key drivers of economic growth, employment and improved livelihoods.
WAFFEST 2026 runs from October 15 to 21 under the theme “Developing Skills, Changing Lives.”
The event attracted chefs, food producers, tourism stakeholders and cultural practitioners from more than 30 countries to showcase West Africa’s rich culinary heritage.
Activities include cooking competitions, exhibitions, masterclasses, youth culinary challenges, traditional Gambian food showcases and cultural performances.
Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Abdoulie Jobe commended the national organising committee and its chairperson for coordinating the festival. He said the event provides a platform to use West Africa’s culinary heritage to promote tourism, create economic opportunities and strengthen regional cooperation.
Minister Jobe thanked sponsors for their support, describing their contributions as an investment in cultural heritage and tourism development. He said hosting the festival is a source of national pride and a strategic opportunity to position The Gambia as a preferred tourism destination.
He urged stakeholders to strengthen partnerships, nurture culinary talent and ensure the festival delivers lasting benefits to communities across the region.
Africa Chefs Alliance President Chef Shun Smith, said the festival goes beyond food and entertainment, describing it as a celebration of Africa’s shared culinary heritage and cultural identity.
He said food reflects the continent’s history, migration, resilience and creativity, while uniting people across cultures and generations.
Chef Smith also highlighted the role of chefs in preserving traditions and passing cultural knowledge to future generations, noting that culinary activities can create economic opportunities and support youth employment.
