ZAMBIA CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL CHEFS DAY 2025

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Posted by admin on October 22, 2025 at 3:50 AM

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Zambia joined the global culinary community in celebrating International Chefs Day 2025 under the vibrant theme “Food Explorers,” spotlighting the creativity, skill, and cultural significance of chefs across the nation.

The event paid tribute to chefs as key drivers of Zambia’s hospitality and tourism industry, transforming local ingredients into dishes that reflect the country’s rich heritage and gastronomic identity.

Delivering remarks on behalf of Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba, Director of Culture Betty Chelemu emphasized that chefs are not just cooks—they are innovators, educators, and cultural ambassadors.

“Through their creativity, chefs continuously explore, create, and share new flavours that enrich Zambia’s tourism offering. Every dish tells a story of heritage, innovation, and pride in our culture,” Chelemu said.

Minister Sikumba reaffirmed the government’s commitment to placing chefs at the heart of Zambia’s Tourism Development Agenda, noting that culinary tourism is a strategic pillar in the Tourism Master Plan (2022–2038).

He highlighted how Zambia’s culinary excellence complements its wildlife and scenic landscapes, helping position the country as a destination celebrated for both natural beauty and vibrant cuisine.

The Minister also commended the Zambia Chefs Association for its efforts to professionalize the sector, promote culinary excellence, and contribute to the growth of the hospitality industry. He acknowledged the Association’s push for a Zambia Chefs Association Bill, assuring that the Ministry is reviewing the proposal in line with the Tourism and Hospitality Act.

“Your work supports our vision for sustainable tourism, local sourcing, and inclusive participation. You are the unsung heroes of Zambia’s tourism story, turning every meal into a masterpiece and every visitor into an ambassador of Zambian hospitality,” Sikumba said.