The Gambia has beaten Nigeria, Ghana and Liberia to win the contentious best Jollof rice competition in West Africa.

The wonderful team of incredible cooks led by international award-winning chef Saikou Bojang represented The Gambia at the WAFFEST competition. 

The competition took place in Nigeria between 9 and 14 August. 

The talented Gambian chefs were crowned champions for their used of indigenous recipes, artistic food displays, and preserved West African flavours in a way so deliciously unique to The Gambia. 

“Forget Jollof rice – we’re all about that Benachin life! The Gambia takes the crown in the African signature cuisine competition and wins gold in the 2023 vegan showdown” The Gambia Tourism Board celebrated the victory in a statement.

The Gambian chefs team has earned praises both in the country around the world for beating nations like Nigeria who have been claiming ownership of the Jollof rice.

They included Saikou Bojang, Musa Darbo, Malang Kebbeh, and Haddy Nyang, Mah Sillah.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba