Berlin, Germany, 4th March, 2026- Sierra Leone has secured the hosting rights for the 3rd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, a prestigious continental event scheduled for December 2–4, 2026 in Freetown.
The announcement was made at ITB Berlin, the world’s leading travel trade show, following a high-level meeting between Sierra Leone’s delegation and UN Tourism officials led by Madam Elsia Grancourt, Regional Director for Africa.
Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Mrs. Nabeela Tunis, described the achievement as a milestone in Sierra Leone’s cultural diplomacy.
“Sierra Leone is ready to showcase its rich culinary heritage to the world. Gastronomy is a powerful tool for cultural preservation and economic growth, and we are honoured to lead this conversation for the continent in 2026.” Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Mrs Nabeela Tunis said.
The hosting rights mark a major boost for Sierra Leone’s “Culture and Creativity” campaign, which highlights food as both a cultural treasure and an economic driver. Minister Tunis and her team impressed UN Tourism officials with their preparedness, offering detailed responses to technical and logistical requirements.
The Gastronomy Forum has become a key platform linking food, culture, and tourism across Africa, the 1st Edition was hosted at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe (July 2024), the 2nd Edition in Tanzania (April 2025) and the 3rd Edition is set to be hosted in Sierra Leone (December 2026)
By joining this roster, Sierra Leone positions itself as a leader in culinary diplomacy, showcasing its cuisine as a bridge between tradition and modern tourism.
The 2026 forum is expected to attract international chefs, tourism ministers, policymakers, and global media, providing a major boost to Sierra Leone’s hospitality sector. Delegates will experience the unique flavors of the “Lion Mountain,” while local businesses gain visibility on the global stage.
Madam Grancourt praised Sierra Leone’s proactive engagement at ITB Berlin, noting that the country’s commitment has “placed it on strong footing to deliver an exceptional gathering.”
The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has invited stakeholders and private sector partners to collaborate in making the 2026 Gastronomy Forum a historic success for Sierra Leone and Africa at large.
