In a landmark development for African and MENA countries, Cap Bon (Tunisia) has been officially welcomed as a candidate for the World Region of Gastronomy 2028 Award, further reinforcing IGCAT’s global commitment to diversity, cultural richness, and inclusive development through gastronomy. The announcement was formally confirmed during IGCAT’s 12th Annual General Meeting and 36th Advisory Forum, held on 18 June 2025, marking a significant milestone for the Platform.
“The Cap Bon welcomed my Sicilian ancestors at the beginning of the last century, offering them some of the hardest yet most joyful years of their lives. Now, after a decade of living in the heart of this region, I feel it is my turn to give back, to honour the land, culture, and cuisine that shaped my mother’s childhood. I am proud to have initiated the Cap Bon’s candidacy as a World Region of Gastronomy and deeply encouraged to see public and private sectors joining forces, hand in hand, to make the Cap Bon shine on the international stage,” declared Mrs. Lamia Temimi, Co-founder of Sawa Taste of Tunisia
As a candidate, Cap Bon looks forward to collaborating with the platform of regions from across the globe to promote sustainable food practices, strengthen local economies, and preserve culinary identities through innovation, education, and responsible tourism.
“The Regional Tourism Authority of Nabeul-Hammamet is deeply honored by its participation and the official signing of the candidacy protocol for Cap Bon as a World Region of Gastronomy 2028, especially since the Governorate of Nabeul offers a unique blend of cultural tourism, seaside experiences, crafts, and a rich gastronomy – making it one of Tunisia’s most attractive destinations”, stated Mr. Wahid Ben Fraj, Regional Commissioner for Tourism in Nabeul-Hammamet.
And the President of the ATPNE (Association Tunisienne de la Protection de la Nature et de l’Environement) Mrs. Imen Rabah added: “This partnership celebrates the unique culinary traditions, rich agricultural landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage of Korba and the entire peninsula. This recognition marks our commitment to cultural resilience and the promotion of our regional heritage.”
This candidacy marks a bold vision for the future of the country, offering a platform to highlight Cap Bon’s rich biodiversity, traditional food ways, and intercultural dialogue, positioning it as a trailblazer in Africa for sustainable gastronomic development.
About the World/European Regions of Gastronomy
World/European Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; driving environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; supporting balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlighting and supporting expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practices; and contributing to community health and well-being.
About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance of protecting and promoting distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguarding our planet, health, wellness and local economies.
IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.
IGCAT founded the World/European Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the World/European Regions of Gastronomy Platforms. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award, the World Food Gift Challenge, the Top Websites for Foodie Travelers Award and the international Food Film Menu.
19 junio 2025
