By Yunus S. Saliu
The Africa Chefs Alliance (ACA) has expressed confidence in The Gambia’s preparedness to host the West Africa Food Festival (WAFFEST) 2026, following a weeklong inspection of tourism and hospitality facilities across the country.
Chef Shaun Smith, President of the ACA and head of the inspection team, said the assessment covered several key areas, including the International Conference Centre, government commitment, transportation, hotel facilities, competition equipment, tourist attractions, security and human capacity.
In a message of appreciation issued at the end of the inspection exercise, Smith thanked the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and other stakeholders for the hospitality and support provided to the team during its visit.
“On behalf of the Board of the Africa Chefs Alliance (ACA), I wish to express our profound gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture, The Gambia Tourism Board, International Trade Centre (ITC), Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute (GTHI), The Gambia Hotels Association (GHA), The Gambia Chefs Association (GCA), the media, Chefs Corner, Spice Hub, Kairaba Hotel and all other partners for making the stay of the inspection team most hospitable over the past week,” he said.
He also commended Chef Darboe and his team for what he described as strong leadership and support for the WAFFEST project.
Smith praised the Chairperson of the WAFFEST Planning Committee and the Organising Committee for their direction and guidance throughout the inspection, describing their involvement as an honour to the ACA.
He also thanked the team’s driver, Malik, for his support and transportation arrangements during the visit.
The ACA president further commended local culinary establishments, including Yabouy Homecooking, Chefs Corner and Spice Hub, particularly Chefs Alpha and Bojang, for the quality of meals served to the inspection team.
“From the grills to the rice and pizza, and lobster, everything was outstanding. We are so proud of you,” he said.
Smith said the inspection team was “truly overwhelmed” by the warm hospitality it received throughout its stay, describing the experience as a reflection of The Gambia’s reputation as the “Smiling Coast”.
He said the inspection had also strengthened the ACA’s confidence in The Gambia’s ability to successfully host WAFFEST 2026.
“Based on our inspection of the International Conference Centre, government commitment, transportation, hotel facilities, competition equipment, tourist attractions, security of the country and human capacity, ACA believes that The Gambia is very much on track to deliver a great WAFFEST 2026,” Smith said.
WAFFEST 2026 is expected to bring together chefs, culinary professionals and other stakeholders from across Africa and beyond to showcase West African cuisine, promote culinary skills and strengthen the region’s food and tourism industries.
The ACA inspection forms part of preparations for the festival, which is scheduled to take place in The Gambia from 15 to 21 October 2026 under the theme, “Developing Skills, Changing Lives.”
Smith said the team was looking forward to returning to The Gambia for the festival, despite expressing sadness at the end of the inspection visit.
“Although it is sad to leave, we look forward to seeing you all again in October for WAFFEST 2026,” he remarked.