The United Nations appointed Zimbabwean comedian and chef Carl Joshua Ncube as the Special Ambassador for Gastronomy and Tourism.
This prestigious appointment recognizes Ncube’s passion and expertise in promoting culinary tourism and cultural exchange through food.
Comedian, Ncube has entertained audiences worldwide with his witty humor and insightful observations. However, his love for food and cooking has also made him a respected figure in the culinary world. Through his cooking shows on social media platforms, Ncube has showcased the rich flavors and diversity of Zimbabwean cuisine, inspiring a new generation of food enthusiasts.
In an interview with Showbiz News, Ncube said, “I was in shock when I was first informed that I was selected together with three other African chefs to be the United Nations Tourism Special Ambassador for Gastronomy. From shock, it became fear because of the gravity of the appointment. Then my fans reminded me where I have come from, and I have begun to see its purpose in the lives of the people I represent.”
In his new role as UN Special Ambassador, Ncube will promote gastronomy tourism as a tool for cultural exchange, sustainable development, and community empowerment. He will work closely with the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to highlight the importance of food tourism in preserving cultural heritage and supporting local economies.
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“This platform allows me to continue my work in preserving past knowledge of our food and food history; this has been a study of mine for the last couple of years. It also certainly expands my range of collaborations within the UN space and the work they are doing, as well as giving feedback locally to chefs, and most importantly, I am now validated in my quest to pursue the future of African gastronomy, Zimbabwe included in our various innovative projects,” said Ncube when asked how he was planning to promote the intersection of food, culture, and travel on a global scale.
Ncube highlighted his thoughts on potential gastronomy tourism to create economic opportunities and empower local communities; he said “people in our villages need to understand the importance of validation of packaging and selling. Once our people know that chimukuyu can be sold globally or the confidence of packaging a pig’s head into cured meat or the production of honey-made wine or even knowing that in Brazil there’s a drink called Cachaca that’s 100 a bottle, which is basically a well-made Kachasu.”
“I hope, if God willing, that I could collaborate with our First Lady, Dr. Auxillia Mnangwagwa, to do a cookbook featuring recipes around the country; I hope to see international festivals for food working with embassies in Zimbabwe; I hope to see indigenous brand extensions created with local brands, like a beer using local fruits, for example. I definitely would like to see a growth in my mentorship academies with practical courses for younger people entering the tourism sector,” he said, in reference to what he is looking forward to in the future.
Ncube’s appointment is a testament to Zimbabwe’s vibrant culture and cuisine, which are now being recognized on the global stage. As he embarks on this new journey, Ncube is expected to inspire a love of food and cultural exchange among people from all walks of life, fostering greater understanding and cooperation between nations.
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