Madina Market Comes Alive with Flavor and Festivity for AU Day Jollof Challenge
Madina Market in Accra came alive with color, culture, and the irresistible aroma of Jollof rice on Saturday, as music and dance filled the air. The usually bustling marketplace turned into a festival of unity and flavor in celebration of African Union (AU) Day.
The Mirror, in partnership with Gino and Metro TV’s Cook Africa Show, hosted the second edition of the Jollof Challenge—a culinary showcase celebrating the diversity and richness of African cuisine.
A Melting Pot of Flavors and Cultures
Contestants from various backgrounds brought their unique flair to the competition, all using Gino Jollof Mix as the base ingredient:
- Chef Halliday Israel of Nigeria cooked a traditional Nigerian Jollof.
- Caroline Pomeyie from Oceans Mall served a rich seafood variation.
- Cynthia Obeng of CalBank presented a classic Ghanaian version.
- Sandra Ampofoa Ofosu from Metro TV created her signature “Ampofoa’s Jollof.”
Though the dishes varied in ingredients and techniques, the heart of the event was not competition—it was community, culture, and connection. There were no winners or losers, just an open invitation to share in the joy of food. Once the meals were ready, market women and passers-by were invited to feast together, turning the event into a true celebration.
Cooking Up Unity
Speaking to The Mirror, Mr. Eddie Seddoh, a lead organizer and representative of the Cook Africa Show, explained the vision behind the initiative.
“The Cook Africa Show is about more than food. It’s about celebrating African identity and unity. Through our unique ingredients and cooking traditions, we tell stories that bring people together.”
He credited the event’s success to the collaborative efforts of colleagues Michael Adu Gyamerah and Akosua Gyafo, noting that the team is committed to making the AU Day celebration an annual tradition—each year with fresh perspectives and even more vibrant expressions of African cuisine.
A Market Day to Remember
For many vendors, the event transformed what would have been a routine Saturday into a special occasion. Miss Sarah Ama Serwaa Antwi, a vegetable seller with 15 years of experience at Madina Market, shared her excitement.
“Today felt different. There was music, dancing, people laughing and eating together. It brought so much joy. I even tried the Nigerian Jollof—and it was delicious!”
