WFF Gambia Youth Chapter celebrates Sustainable Gastronomy Week by promoting food heritage

On 19 June 2026, the World Food Forum (WFF) Gambia Youth Chapter, in collaboration with the Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute (GTHI), celebrated Sustainable Gastronomy Week 2026 through a multi-stakeholder event under the global theme “Celebrating Food Heritage". The event brought together more than 60 participants, including government representatives, nutrition experts, chefs, entrepreneurs, students, youth leaders and development partners, to celebrate Gambian culinary heritage while promoting sustainable agrifood systems and healthy, locally rooted diets.

The programme featured keynote remarks from representatives of the Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute, the Gambia Tourism Board, the Ministries of Agriculture and Tourism, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), who highlighted the importance of promoting Indigenous food, preserving culinary traditions and strengthening sustainable agrifood systems while increasing the visibility of Gambian cuisine.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of findi (fonio), a nutritious, climate-resilient indigenous West African grain, through a variety of traditional Gambian dishes prepared by local chefs and culinary entrepreneurs. Participants sampled dishes including Findi Juka, Findi Benachin, Findi Domoda, Findi Lakh and Findi Akara, all prepared using locally sourced ingredients. The demonstrations showcased the versatility of findi while highlighting the importance of supporting local farmers and promoting healthy diets. The event also showcased a rich selection of locally produced foods and beverages through collaborations with private sector partners, including baobab juice, wonjo, chakerey, fresh fruits and vegetables, celebrating the diversity of Gambian agriculture.

The programme began with an inspiring cultural performance by a traditional griot (West African storyteller), featuring the Kora and Balafon (traditional acoustic instruments), accompanied by traditional Mandinka songs. The performance introduced participants to Gambian musical heritage and creating a connection between food, culture and tradition.  Interactive panel discussions throughout the event explored nutrition and healhty diets, sustainable agriculture, food waste reduction, the preservation of Indigenous food, youth participation in agrifood systems and the role of gastronomy in preserving cultural identity.

The discussions created opportunities for dialogue among government institutions, development partners, the private sector, academia and young people on the future of sustainable agrifood systems in The Gambia.

The event demonstrated how Indigenous food can contribute to healthier diets, sustainable agrifood systems and the preservation of cultural heritage. By celebrating cereals like findi, promoting local innovation and fostering collaboration across sectors, the Chapter remains committed to promoting youth leadership, strengthening partnerships and encouraging a greater appreciation of local food heritage as part of the country’s agrifood systems transformation.