MONROVIA— The Liberia Professional Chefs Association (LIPCA), with support from the Liberia National Tourism Authority (LNTA), is set to represent Liberia at the West Africa Food Festival (WYFfest), scheduled to take place in Banjul, The Gambia, from October 15 to 21, 2026.
By Francis G. Boayue
The association’s participation is expected to provide an opportunity to showcase Liberia’s traditional cuisine, cultural heritage, tourism potential, and culinary enterprise to a regional and international audience.
Under the theme of showcasing Liberia’s flavors, people, and potential to West Africa and the world, LIPCA aims to highlight the country’s diverse food traditions and the role of culinary arts in promoting tourism and economic development.
The festival will bring together participants from across the region to celebrate West African food, culture, and culinary creativity.
With the support of the LNTA, LIPCA’s participation reflects efforts to promote Liberia’s culinary identity and create greater visibility for local chefs and food-related businesses beyond the country’s borders.
The association is expected to use the platform to present traditional Liberian dishes and demonstrate how the country’s cuisine forms an important part of its cultural identity.
Beyond food presentation, the festival also offers an opportunity to promote tourism and enterprise by connecting culinary professionals, showcasing local food products, and highlighting the potential of Liberia’s hospitality sector.
LIPCA’s participation could also help create opportunities for professional networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration with chefs and other stakeholders from across West Africa.
The association’s representation at the festival comes amid broader efforts to position Liberia’s cultural heritage and tourism attractions as part of the country’s economic development potential.
Through its participation, LIPCA seeks to contribute to the promotion of Liberian cuisine and strengthen recognition of the country’s culinary traditions within the West African region and beyond.
The West Africa Food Festival is scheduled to run from October 15 to 21, 2026, in Banjul, The Gambia.