The Gambia is set to host the West Africa Food Festival (WAFFEST) for the first time, with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture pledging its support for the regional culinary and cultural event.

An inspection team from WAFFEST, alongside the Africa Chefs Alliance and the Gambia Chefs Association, met Permanent Secretary Amie Njie at the ministry in Banjul as preparations continue for the festival.

WAFFEST is scheduled to take place from 15 to 21 October 2026 and is expected to bring together chefs and other stakeholders from across West Africa.

The visit formed part of ongoing consultations with key stakeholders ahead of the festival, which organisers say will provide a platform to promote West African cuisine, culture and tourism.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Abdoulie Jobe, Permanent Secretary Njie welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the successful hosting of the event.

“This is a great initiative for promoting Destination Gambia, and we will make all efforts to make the event possible together with our relevant stakeholders,” she said.

Mrs Njie highlighted The Gambia’s reputation as a peaceful country and its hospitality, saying these qualities make it well suited to host a regional event of this nature.

She also praised the Gambia Chefs Association for taking the initiative to bring WAFFEST to the country, describing the move as “a step in the right direction” for tourism promotion and cultural exchange.

The festival is expected to provide an opportunity for The Gambia to showcase its culinary traditions while strengthening cultural and professional exchanges among chefs and food industry stakeholders across the region.

With preparations now underway, organisers and government stakeholders are expected to continue working together to ensure WAFFEST 2026 delivers a successful first edition in The Gambia.

By Adama Makasuba