UN Tourism Inspects Lungi Ahead of December Gastronomy Forum
A delegation from UN Tourism has conducted an on-site inspection of hospitality and conference facilities across Lungi in preparation for the 3rd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, scheduled for December 2 to 4, 2026.
Led by Chloe Bougeard, Project Specialist for Market Intelligence, Policies and Competitiveness, and Aldo Busin, Senior Project Specialist in UN Tourism’s Regional Department for Africa, the inspection team evaluated key infrastructure to ensure operational readiness for the upcoming high-level continental event.
The delegation surveyed several primary accommodation and venue locations, including the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Center, Lungi Gateway Hotel, Lungi International Airport Hotel, and Tariq’s Resort. Assessors focused on capacity, service standards, and venue accessibility for expected international participants.
Accompanying the UN officials were key national tourism leadership, including the General Manager of the National Tourist Board, the Director of Tourism, and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, along with private-sector industry partners.
Following detailed briefings regarding logistical planning, venue setup, and hospitality protocols, representatives from the Ministry reported that the UN delegation expressed satisfaction with the progress and preparation demonstrated by local authorities.
The forum aims to foster discussion on gastronomy tourism as a driver for regional economic growth, bridging local culinary heritage, agricultural supply chains, creative industries, and women’s economic empowerment across the continent.
The inspection comes ahead of the December event, which will be held at the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre in Lungi. The visit provided the delegation with an opportunity to review the facilities being prepared to support the forum.
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