In a landmark moment for Vanuatu, the Global Regenerative Agritourism Symposium saw the signing of a protocol to support Vanuatu’s candidacy for the World Region of Gastronomy Award in 2027. This significant event was part of the symposium hosted by Regenerative Vanua in Mangaliliu Nakamal and led by Mr. Jerry Spooner, Executive Director of Regenerative Vanua, and Dr. Cherise Addinsall from the Australian Pacific Islands Research Centre. The five-day event, starting on 10 June 2024, brought together around 200 experts from 12 Pacific Island countries dedicated to traditional and organic farming methods.

The symposium paid a heartfelt tribute to Ms. Votausi Mackenzie-Reur for her lifetime dedication to protecting and promoting food and cultural diversity in Vanuatu. In recognition of her tireless efforts, Ms. Votausi received an Honorary Ambassador Award from IGCAT, presented by its President, Dr. Diane Dodd. Renowned celebrity Chef Robert Oliver, a new IGCAT expert, spoke eloquently of her remarkable achievements, highlighting her humble approach and relentless commitment to elevating Vanuatu on the global gastronomic map.

The event featured key speakers such as acclaimed filmmaker Mr. Damon Gameau, who focused on reconnecting children to the natural world, and Ms. Anna Pollock, founder of Conscious Travel, who highlighted the concept of “Wellth” over wealth and commended Vanuatu for its holistic approach to health and well-being. Mr. Joe Rayawa stressed the importance of unity and the courage to reject mass tourism or disrespectful business practices. Panels reiterated the need to protect community well-being through sharing, caring, and connecting, providing valuable insights into the regenerative agritourism movement.

The highlight of the symposium was the International Gastronomy Awards panel session, where Vanuatu’s aspirations for the World Region of Gastronomy Award in 2027 were shared. A protocol was signed with five entities supporting these ambitions.

Dr. Dodd emphasized that Vanuatu’s acceptance as a candidate comes with great responsibility. The country must set a strong example of cross-sectoral collaboration to safeguard culinary heritage, share knowledge internally and with global partners, and submit a draft bid book by December this year. It is hoped that Vanuatu’s government will invest in the country’s food future moving forward.

IGCAT President Dr. Diane Dodd praised the Ni-Vanuatu participants for their crucial role in conserving traditions, safeguarding plant varieties, and promoting local food. During a panel session led by the Pacific Agritourism Network, the potential for growth and innovation in agritourism in the Pacific was thoroughly explored.

The connections forged and insights gained during this symposium will contribute to creating a sustainable future for generations to come. The event concluded with a moving tribute to the people of Vanuatu, reflecting the island country’s aspirations to become the World Region of Gastronomy in 2027.

As the symposium concluded, there was a renewed sense of determination and commitment to building a more sustainable and inclusive future. The recognition that only by uniting in a shared purpose can meaningful differences be made for future generations was a powerful takeaway from this event. Vanuatu’s journey towards becoming a World Region of Gastronomy is now more vibrant and promising than ever, with strong support from local and international stakeholders.