Uganda has registered notable success at the African culinary competitions held in Nairobi, Kenya, where hospitality students and professional chefs from across the continent showcased their skills in a three-day contest marked by creativity, precision, and cultural pride.
The event, dubbed the Ladha Za Afrika Culinary Competition, ran from April 13 to 16 at Boma International Hospitality College. It celebrates the richness and diversity of African cuisines while positioning the continent within a growing global gastronomy industry.
Now in its second edition, the competition brought together participants from across Africa to present modern interpretations of traditional African dishes, using locally sourced ingredients and sustainable cooking practices.
Uganda was represented by a team from the Jinja-based Hotel and Tourism Training College (HTTC), formerly the Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute.
“We are truly grateful to Boma International Hospitality College for giving us the opportunity to be part of such a remarkable celebration of African culinary excellence. It was an honour to stand alongside some of the continent’s finest talent,” said Emmanuel Kaweesi.
The competition, held under the theme “Ladha Za Afrika: Promoting Africanicity in Cookery and Service,” featured two categories—Culinary Arts and Restaurant Service. HTTC’s Brenda Alanyo emerged third out of nine contestants in the restaurant service category.
She attributed her performance to the professional training offered at HTTC.
“It was an honour to compete at a high level with the best across the continent. Emerging among the top competitors is a testament to the skill level and training offered at the college,” she said.
Organisers commended Uganda’s participation, noting that it strengthens collaboration between BIHC and HTTC in advancing hospitality training standards across Africa.
A total of 12 institutions participated in the competition, seven of which were from the host country, Kenya. Other participating countries included Nigeria, Ghana, Botswana, South Africa, and Uganda. The absence of Kenya Utalii College was noted by observers.
The chief judge, Shaun Smith, also pledged to attend the upcoming National Hospitality Skills Competition scheduled for September at HTTC.
HTTC launched the National Hospitality Skills Competition last year, with its second edition set for September. The inaugural edition, held in February last year, featured eight participating institutions.
