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.
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.
