By Yunus S. Saliu
The Gambia Chef Association (Team Gambia) has set its sights on clinching top honours at the ongoing West African Food Festival (WAFFEST) 2025, which officially opened this week in Accra, Ghana. The festival runs from 22nd to 27th September 2025 and brings together celebrated chefs from across West Africa and beyond to showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Team Gambia’s participation is fully supported by the Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard) under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), as part of efforts to promote Gambian gastronomy internationally.
Speaking ahead of the competitions, Chef Musa Darboe, President of the Gambia Chef Association, expressed confidence in his team’s chances of success, citing their impressive record at previous WAFFEST editions.
“We are optimistic and ready to represent The Gambia with excellence,” Chef Darboe said. “Over the years, we have proven that Gambian cuisine can compete with the best in West Africa and beyond.”
He highlighted the team’s past achievements, which include: 2018 (Nigeria): Champions of the Green Cooking Award and Best Country Cuisine Starter. 2019 (Ghana): Best Chef of West Africa and Best Pastry Plating, and in 2023 (Nigeria): Winners of the Jollof Rice Challenge and Best Vegan Dish
Founded in 2005, the Gambia Chef Association has grown into the country’s premier professional body for culinary arts. For more than two decades, it has played a key role in raising hospitality standards and promoting Gambian cuisine on the global stage.
Members of the association are regarded as culinary ambassadors of the Smiling Coast of Africa, representing the nation beyond the kitchen and showcasing its unique flavours to international audiences.
With WAFFEST 2025 featuring intense cooking competitions, live demonstrations, and cultural food showcases, Team Gambia is determined to add another prestigious title to its growing list of accolades.
The post WAFFEST 2025: Gambia Chefs Target Top Honours in Accra appeared first on .
l53e9f