Flavors of Unity: Botswana, France come together through food

Nnasaretha Kgamanyane | Wednesday March 25, 2026 06:13

The event, part of the Francophonic month celebrations, was a resounding success, with attendees and students alike savouring the rich aromas and tastes of French and African cuisine.

Chef Maetz, a master of Alsatian cuisine, shared his passion for cooking, which was sparked by his mother.

'Cooking is about emotion and feelings. The best food is often the one you had when you were a kid, cooking with your mom,' he said, emphasising the importance of using local ingredients and respecting the seasons.

His words resonated with Chef Monana Motswaledi, founder of Gaborone College of Culinary Arts and president of Africa Gastronomy in Botswana, who welcomed the chefs and highlighted the college's efforts to promote Botswana's cuisine globally.

The event showcased the rich culinary diversity of Africa and France, with dishes like Musukani Jollof Pilaf, a fusion of Nigerian and Botswana flavours.

As Chef Luthra from Ghana said, 'Africa Gastronomy is planning to bring our ancestral food across the border and showcase it to the world.'

The successful collaboration has sparked hopes for future culinary exchanges and events that will elevate Botswana's gastronomic scene.

For Chef Monana, the event was a testament to the power of food to bring people together and celebrate cultural diversity.

'Food is a heritage and it enhances culture,' she said. 'We try to teach even the youngsters to put Botswana on the global map.'

The Gaborone College of Culinary Arts is committed to promoting culinary excellence and cultural exchange, offering a range of courses and programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the culinary industry.

As Botswana's culinary scene continues to evolve, events such as these play a crucial role in promoting cultural exchange and innovation.

The successful collaboration between the Alliance Francaise de Gaborone and the Gaborone College of Culinary Arts is a testament to the power of food to bring people together and celebrate cultural diversity.

The event has sparked hopes for future culinary exchanges and events that will elevate Botswana's gastronomic scene. As Chef Maetz invited, 'Come visit Alsace, and let's cook together!'

With its rich cultural heritage and vibrant culinary scene, Botswana is poised to become a hub for foodies and chefs from around the world.