The 8th edition of the West Africa Food Festival (WAFFEST) opened on Friday at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre.
More than a food fair, WAFFEST is West Africa's flagship culinary gathering — a week-long celebration designed to preserve the sub-region's culinary heritage, strengthen regional cooperation and showcase West African cuisine to the world.
This year's edition, running from October 15 to 21, 2026 under the theme 'Developing Skills, Changing Lives', has brought together chefs from over 30 countries.
Siaka Fadera, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, said The Gambia is proud to host the celebration.
"WAFFEST provides a valuable platform to preserve our culinary heritage, strengthen regional cooperation, and showcase the potential of West African cuisine to the world," he said.
Food, he noted, is an expression of "our identity, history and cultural diversity."
"Beyond its cultural significance, the culinary and hospitality industries offer immense opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship, investment and inclusive economic growth, particularly for our youth and women," he said.
The Ministry, he added, recognises WAFFEST as more than a festival, but a strategic platform for tourism development, innovation and promotion of cultural identity.
"In line with our national tourism objective, we are placing greater emphasis on MICE — Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions — to diversify our tourism offerings beyond traditional seasonal tourism," he said. Events such as WAFFEST enhance The Gambia's visibility as a destination for regional and international gatherings.
The President of the African Chef Alliance, Chef Saun Smith, described WAFFEST as more than a festival.
"It is a celebration of our shared culinary heritage as Africans, as people of African descent across the continent and across the world," he said.
"Food, beyond feeding and nourishment, is a powerful tool for cultural identity, historical memory, economic opportunity, youth employment and human connection."
He said the festival tells a story of migration, resilience and creativity.
Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Abdoulie Jobe thanked the national organising committee, saying their efforts reflect "a shared vision of harnessing West Africa's rich culinary heritage while also promoting tourism, cultural and economic opportunities."
In his keynote address, Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow said food reflects "our identity, history and shared heritage."
"Across West Africa, culinary traditions unite communities, preserve culture and sustain livelihoods. WAFFEST offers an important platform to celebrate our culinary diversity, strengthen regional cooperation and promote gastronomy as a driver of tourism and economic growth," he said.
He said culinary tourism has huge potential to attract visitors, create jobs and support local businesses.
"We must strengthen links between local agriculture and the hospitality industry by creating reliable markets for our farmers, fishermen and food processors," he said.
The opening ceremony featured a country cuisine display, showcasing West Africa's culinary excellence in colour, spice and flavour.