uganda launches culinary training to boost tourism
A three-day program in Mukono aims to transform traditional dishes into marketable visitor experiences.
Uganda's Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities has launched a culinary tourism training program in Mukono District. The three-day initiative brings together 50 chefs, hospitality students, food vendors, and tour operators. It aims to equip participants with skills in food preparation, presentation, hygiene, and sustainable cooking methods to package traditional dishes for visitors.
David Harongo, Curator of Educational Research at the Ministry, stated that Uganda has not fully exploited its rich and diverse local cuisine as a tourism product, focusing instead on nature-based attractions like wildlife and gorillas. The training seeks to change this by learning from countries like Egypt and Nigeria, where traditional cuisine is a key part of the tourism value chain.
The program, implemented with support from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (COMCEC), is a pilot expected to be rolled out to other tourism hubs. Facilitators emphasize that culinary tourism involves understanding the story behind the food, from ingredient sourcing to cultural significance. This initiative comes as Uganda prepares to host more international visitors, including for AFCON 2027.
Why it mattersUganda is developing its local cuisine as a tourism product to attract visitors, create jobs, and boost local businesses.