The United Nations Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has called for the promotion of gastronomy tourism to boost African’s cultural content.
Sandra Carvao, Director Tourism, Market Intelligence and Competitiveness, UNWTO, made this known during a three-day UNWTO Global Conference on Monday in Lagos.
Gastronomy tourism is a type of tourism associated with acquaintance with national and local culinary traditions of the world and with the tasting of local cuisine.
The theme of the event is: “Linking Tourism, Culture and Creative Industries: Pathways to Recovery and Inclusive Development.”
She said that promoting gastronomy in Africa would strengthen culinary identity and local products.
Carvao said that it was necessary to promote competitiveness in the value chain, innovation and management of the sector to boost gastronomy tourism in Africa it
She said it was also essential to improve the scenario, atmosphere and hospitality for gastronomy tourists.
“Africans need to foster the creation and development of products and experience associated with the indigenous potential of the destination.
“These should be innovative, distinctive and varied to attract gastronomy tourist and help position the territory as a gastronomy destination.
“Those in the sector also need to define and adopt a plan to promote and support the marketing of gastronomy tourism with the participation of all agents, “she said.
Carvao said that it was also important to maximise the power of technology as a key driver for developing gastronomy tourism.
The event was attended by tourism experts from within and outside the country.