AYV News, July 7, 2026
Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its readiness to host the third edition of the UN Tourism Africa Gastronomy Forum, leveraging the 69th Meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa (CAF) in Seychelles to strengthen partnerships, align policy priorities, and showcase the country’s preparedness for the prestigious continental event.
The Sierra Leone delegation, led by Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, joined tourism ministers, senior government officials, development partners, and private sector leaders from across Africa to discuss strategies for advancing tourism development on the continent.
Scheduled for 2–4 December 2026, the forum is expected to bring together key stakeholders to explore the role of gastronomy in promoting sustainable tourism, preserving cultural heritage, and driving economic growth across Africa.
The UN Tourism Africa Gastronomy Forum has rapidly established itself as one of the continent’s premier tourism events. The inaugural edition was held in Victoria Falls in 2024, followed by the second edition in Arusha in 2025. Sierra Leone will now host the third edition, marking another significant milestone in the country’s growing profile as a tourism destination.
The 2026 forum also carries added significance as it will be the first edition to be held under the leadership of Shaikha Al Nuwais, following her appointment as Secretary-General of UN Tourism. Her leadership is expected to further elevate the strategic importance of the event and strengthen Africa’s position in the global tourism landscape.
Hosting the forum underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to promoting gastronomy tourism as a catalyst for cultural exchange, investment, job creation, and sustainable economic development while positioning the country as a leading destination on Africa’s tourism map.
