By: Aminata Sesay
Sierra Leone’s preparations to host the 3rd UN Africa Gastronomy Tourism Forum have received a boost following an inspection visit by a delegation from UN Tourism Headquarters in Spain to assess the country’s readiness for the continental event.
The two-member delegation, comprising Chloe Bougeard, Project Specialist in Market Intelligence, Policies and Competitiveness, and Aldo Busin, Senior Project Specialist in the Regional Department for Africa, concluded its mission on October 13, 2026.
During the visit, the delegation assessed conference facilities, accommodation, tourism attractions and cultural sites expected to feature in the forum’s programme. The team also reviewed logistical arrangements necessary to host international delegates.
Among the sites inspected were Leicester Peak Viewing Site, Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the Innovation Centre and Sugar Land. The visits provided an opportunity to assess the potential of these locations to showcase Sierra Leone’s natural attractions, conservation efforts, local innovation and hospitality services.
The delegation also inspected the Julius Maada Bio Conference Centre, the proposed venue for the forum. The assessment covered conference halls, meeting rooms, technical facilities and support services to determine their suitability for an international event. Accommodation facilities designated for participants were also reviewed for capacity, service quality and preparedness.
In addition to the inspections, the UN Tourism officials met with senior management of the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, including the Senior Permanent Secretary, Director of Tourism, General Manager of the National Tourist Board and members of the technical working groups responsible for coordinating preparations.
Discussions focused on the progress of preparations, logistical requirements, coordination among stakeholders and areas requiring further attention before the forum.
The engagement also reinforced the ministry’s commitment to positioning Sierra Leone as an emerging gastronomy tourism destination by promoting its culinary traditions and cultural diversity to attract visitors and investment.
At the conclusion of the mission, the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs thanked the visiting delegation, sector agencies, technical working groups and other stakeholders for their contributions to the assessment.
The minister reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to ensuring the successful hosting of the forum and called for continued cooperation, broader stakeholder participation and sustained collaboration with UN Tourism and development partners.
The 3rd UN Africa Gastronomy Tourism Forum is expected to bring together policymakers, tourism professionals, investors, chefs, entrepreneurs and development partners from across Africa and beyond.
The forum will provide Sierra Leone with an opportunity to promote its culinary heritage, strengthen its position in the regional tourism market and explore how food, culture and hospitality can contribute to investment, employment and sustainable tourism development.
Following the completion of the inspection mission, preparations will continue, with attention focused on addressing outstanding requirements ahead of the event. Sierra Leone aims to use the forum to showcase its tourism potential to an international audience.