11
MANZINI, ESWATINI – The Kingdom of Eswatini is preparing to welcome 40 international chefs as part of the highly anticipated Southern African Food Festival (SAFFEST) 2026, further cementing the country’s growing reputation as a leading culinary and tourism destination in the region.
The visiting chefs will be officially received during a special Welcome and Networking Session on July 15, 2026 at the Mavuso Trade Centre, Pavilion 1, from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. The event will mark the official opening of SAFFEST 2026 and provide a platform for culinary professionals, industry stakeholders and festival partners to connect ahead of the four-day celebration.
Expected to attract approximately 150 guests, the networking session will bring together international delegates, local chefs, hospitality professionals, culinary students, exhibitors and industry leaders. The gathering aims to foster collaboration, professional networking and knowledge exchange while offering visiting chefs a warm Swazi welcome.
The Welcome and Networking Session forms part of the broader Southern African Food Festival (SAFFEST) 2026, which will run from 15 to 18 July 2026 at the Mavuso Trade Centre in Manzini. Over the years, SAFFEST has grown into one of Southern Africa’s premier culinary showcases, celebrating African cuisine, culture, innovation and hospitality excellence.
The festival is organised through a partnership between the Eswatini Chefs Association, the Africa Chefs Alliance (ACA) and the Taiwan Africa Vegetable Initiative (TAVI), reflecting a shared commitment to advancing culinary excellence, skills development and regional cooperation within the hospitality sector.
Speaking ahead of the festival, Eswatini Chefs Association President Chef Sihle Hlatshwayo said SAFFEST continues to play a significant role in positioning Southern African cuisine on the global stage.
“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.
The participation of more than 40 international chefs is expected to elevate the festival’s regional and international profile while creating valuable opportunities for local culinary professionals to engage with experts from across Africa and beyond. The networking session will serve as the first point of engagement, laying the foundation for collaboration, mentorship and cultural exchange throughout the festival.
Visitors can look forward to an exciting programme featuring country cuisine showcases, interactive masterclasses, educational seminars, product demonstrations by local and international food brands, and culinary competitions scheduled for 17 and 18 July, where some of the region’s finest chefs will compete for top honours.
Beyond the culinary experience, SAFFEST 2026 is expected to make a meaningful contribution to Eswatini’s tourism sector by attracting regional and international travellers seeking authentic cultural and gastronomic experiences. The festival presents a unique opportunity to showcase the Kingdom’s renowned hospitality, diverse food culture and vibrant tourism offerings to a global audience.
As anticipation continues to build, organisers are confident that SAFFEST 2026 will not only celebrate the art of food but also strengthen Eswatini’s position as a destination of choice for culinary tourism, cultural exchange and hospitality excellence in Southern Africa.
About The Author
