The Gambia’s hosting of the eighth edition of the West African Food Festival (WAFFEST) is an opportunity to showcase the country’s culinary heritage, strengthen its tourism industry and promote cultural exchange across Africa. However, the success of the festival should be measured not only by its international participation, but also by the lasting benefits it creates for Gambians.
With more than 30 countries participating, WAFFEST 2026 provides an important platform for chefs to exchange knowledge, demonstrate their skills and celebrate the diverse food traditions that define African identity. Under the theme “Developing Skills, Changing Lives,” the festival rightly highlights professional development and the potential of culinary arts to create livelihoods, particularly for young people.
For The Gambia, the event comes at an opportune moment. Tourism remains an important pillar of the economy, and the country must continue exploring ways to diversify its appeal beyond beaches, hotels and conventional holiday packages. Gambian cuisine, traditional cooking methods and locally sourced ingredients can become powerful attractions for visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences.
The achievements of Gambian chefs at the 2025 festival in Accra, where they won the Heritage Jollof and Meatless Monday competitions, demonstrate the country’s culinary potential. Competing on home soil offers another opportunity to build on these successes and strengthen the reputation of Gambian hospitality professionals.
Nevertheless, the real test will be whether the festival produces sustainable outcomes. Local farmers, food suppliers, restaurants, small businesses and aspiring chefs should benefit from the opportunities it creates. Training and mentorship programmes must also translate into practical skills, employment and entrepreneurship.
The government and tourism stakeholders should therefore treat WAFFEST as more than a weeklong celebration. Its momentum should support investment in culinary education, food safety, local food production and the promotion of Gambian dishes internationally.
As The Gambia welcomes participating countries, the challenge is to turn this gathering into a lasting investment in tourism, skills development and economic opportunity. A successful WAFFEST should leave more than medals and memories; it should help build a stronger culinary industry and a more competitive tourism destination.
About The Author
