𝐄𝐔 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐢𝐚 𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐉𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧!

The European Union in The Gambia warmly congratulates Team Gambia for their outstanding victory at the West Africa Food Festival (#WAFFEST2026)! By successfully defending their Jollof Rice title in Banjul, Gambian chefs have once again proven that the origins and mastery of Benachin remain firmly rooted right here in the region.

This impressive victory was part of a remarkable sweep, with The Gambia taking top honours across four major categories: Jollof Rice, Chef of the Year – Chef Haddy Nyang -, Bread Bakery and BBQ.

The EU is glad to have accompanied WAFFEST 2026 through the EU Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) – Tourism & Creative Industries, implemented with ITC Gambia.

EU Ambassador Imma Roca i Cortés highlighted: “Food is a powerful pillar of culture and identity that unites communities. Supporting young chefs, artisans and entrepreneurs is key to driving sustainable tourism and local economic growth in the country.”

Congratulations to all participants, organisers and talented chefs who represented their nations and made this festival a true celebration of West African culture and culinary excellence!

Is Gambian Benachin officially acknowledged across West Africa? Share your thoughts in the comments below!