On Tuesday, 25th October, 2026, the inspection team of the West Africa Food Festival (WAFFEST), together with the Africa Chefs Alliance, led by the Gambia Chefs Association, paid a courtesy call on Mrs. Amie Njie, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, in Banjul.
The visit formed part of ongoing engagements with stakeholders as The Gambia prepares to host WAFFEST for the first time, scheduled for 15th–21st October 2026.
Welcoming the delegation on behalf of the Honorable Minister, Abdoulie Jobe, PS Njie expressed appreciation for their initiative and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the successful hosting of this landmark event.
“This is a great initiative for promoting Destination Gambia, and we will make all efforts to make the event possible together with our relevant stakeholders,” she said.
She emphasized that The Gambia’s reputation as a peaceful nation with friendly people — the Smiling Coast of Africa — makes it an ideal host for such a regional cultural and culinary gathering.
PS Njie also commended the Gambia Chefs Association for their bold step in bringing WAFFEST 2026 to The Gambia, describing it as “a step in the right direction” for tourism promotion and cultural exchange.
By Lamin Njie
Communications Officer
Ministry of Tourism, Arts And Culture
Communications Officer
Ministry of Tourism, Arts And Culture
