By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
It is 11:00 AM on February 20, 2025, in Mouanko, Sanga Maritime division in the Littoral Region of Cameroon. The sun shines brightly, and a gentle breeze sweeps across the Sanaga River, which forms the boundary with Mouanko.
As the day unfolds, excitement is building for the kick off of the 2025 edition of the Diaspora Kitchen, now in its second year. This event has rapidly gained international acclaim, attracting culinary enthusiasts, renowned chefs, and food lovers from around the globe.
As the gates opened, a diverse crowd eagerly flooded in, ready to explore an array of culinary offerings. Ama Tutu Muna, the event’s founder and former Minister of Arts and Culture, welcomed guests with a beaming smile, expressing her pride in the event’s growth and success.
“This year’s Diaspora Kitchen is a celebration of Africa’s rich culinary heritage and the diaspora’s influence,” Ama Tutu Muna stated. “We have assembled an impressive lineup of chefs, food vendors, and cultural performances that will take visitors on a gastronomic journey across the continent and beyond.”
A standout feature of this year’s event was the participation of international chefs, including Pakistan’s celebrated Chef Faiza Bilal Khan, who traveled from Lahore to showcase her country’s unique culinary traditions.
“I am honored to share my passion for Pakistani cuisine with the people of Cameroon,” Khan remarked while preparing a spicy Karachi-style chicken biryani. “The Diaspora Kitchen serves as a fantastic platform for cultural exchange and culinary innovation.”
Meanwhile, Cameroonian chef Abega highlighted his country’s culinary heritage with traditional dishes such as nam-gon and gombo, prepared using locally sourced ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques.
“African cuisine is about community and sharing,” Abega explained. “We cook with love and passion, and sharing our food is a sign of hospitality and respect. The Diaspora Kitchen beautifully celebrates this tradition and shares it with the world.”
Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed a diverse range of culinary delights, from traditional African dishes to innovative fusion cuisine. Lively cultural performances, including music, dance, and storytelling, enhanced the festive atmosphere.
Local women’s groups also played a significant role, showcasing their traditional cooking skills and allowing attendees to engage deeply with the region’s cultural heritage. Komba Patience, President of a local women’s group, expressed her enthusiasm for the event.
“We are delighted to share our culture with the world,” said Komba Patience. “The Diaspora Kitchen provides an excellent opportunity to promote our local cuisine and connect with diverse cultures.”
The event concluded on February 22, 2025, leaving attendees satisfied and smiling. The following day featured additional activities, including a canoe race on the Sanaga River. The Diaspora Kitchen once again proved to be a resounding success, celebrating Africa’s culinary heritage and fostering cultural exchange.
“We eagerly anticipate 2027 event,” Muna said, expressing gratitude to participants and attendees for making the event a triumph. “The Diaspora Kitchen is a labor of love, and we are thankful for our community of food enthusiasts and cultural advocates who share our passion for Africa’s diverse culinary landscape.”
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