The Gambia has officially claimed the crown in West Africa’s fierce jollof rice rivalry, outshining Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone at this year’s WAFFEST in Accra.
Held from September 22 to 27, the annual West African Food Festival brought together chefs from across the region for a celebration of cooking, creativity, and culture. The main event? A heated battle for jollof rice supremacy.
Gambian chefs Haddy Nyang and Momodou Alpha Jallow stole the spotlight, impressing judges with their flavorful one-pot rice dish made with tomatoes, onions, spices, and a protein twist.
Their culinary triumph earned them gold medals, securing The Gambia’s bragging rights in the ongoing “jollof wars.”
The national team, led by Chef Musa Darboe and backed by the Gambia Tourism Board, also scooped wins in other categories.
