SAFFEST 2026 SET TO SHOWCASE SOUTHERN AFRICA’S CULINARY EXCELLENCE IN ESWATINI

MANZINI, ESWATINI – Eswatini is preparing to take centre stage on the regional culinary map as the Southern African Food Festival (SAFFEST) returns for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of food, culture and innovation.

Scheduled to take place from 15–18 July 2026 at the Mavuso Trade Centre in Manzini, the four-day festival is expected to attract chefs, food enthusiasts, hospitality professionals, exhibitors and visitors from across Southern Africa and beyond.

Organised through a collaboration between the Eswatini Chefs Association, the Africa Chefs Alliance (ACA) and the Taiwan Africa Vegetable Initiative (TAVI), SAFFEST has established itself as a premier platform for culinary excellence, cultural exchange and industry development.

The festival will offer a rich programme designed to celebrate the diversity of African cuisine while promoting innovation within the food and hospitality sectors. Visitors can look forward to country cuisine displays showcasing authentic regional dishes, interactive masterclasses and seminars led by industry experts, product demonstrations featuring local and international food brands, and exciting culinary competitions that will put the region’s top talent to the test.

Speaking ahead of the event, Eswatini Chefs Association President, Chef Sihle Hlatshwayo, described SAFFEST as more than just a food festival.

“SAFFEST is a powerful platform for showcasing Southern Africa’s culinary identity to the world. It brings together exceptional talent, local producers and international partners to celebrate our rich heritage while inspiring the next generation of culinary professionals. We invite both local and international visitors to experience the passion, creativity and incredible flavours that define our region,” she said.

Beyond the culinary experiences, the festival is expected to contribute to Eswatini’s growing tourism sector by attracting visitors seeking authentic cultural and gastronomic experiences. The event presents an opportunity for international travellers to discover the Kingdom’s warm hospitality, vibrant food culture and thriving hospitality industry.

COOKING COMPETITION TAKES CENTRE STAGE

One of the festival’s most anticipated highlights will be the SAFFEST Cooking Competition, set for 17 and 18 July 2026 at the Sedco Pavilion, Mavuso Trade Centre.

With free entry for competitors, aspiring chefs and seasoned culinary professionals have until 3 July 2026 to submit their entries.

The competition features a variety of categories designed to showcase culinary talent across different disciplines, including:

Junior Chefs Challenge
Schools Challenge
Southern Africa Chef of the Year
Vegan Challenge
Ultimate Braai/BBQ Master
Street Food Challenge
Bread Master Challenge
Country Cuisine Display

The competition aims to celebrate creativity, technical skill and culinary innovation while providing a platform for chefs to gain regional recognition.

Whether attending as a competitor, food enthusiast or international visitor seeking a unique cultural experience, SAFFEST 2026 promises four days of exceptional flavours, networking opportunities and memorable experiences.

With the countdown officially underway, organisers are encouraging the public to secure their plans early and prepare to experience one of Southern Africa’s most exciting culinary events.

Those interested in participating in the cooking competition can submit their entries by scanning the QR code provided on the official competition promotional material. The QR code is strictly for competition entries and registration, with terms and conditions applying.