One of Africa’s biggest financial institutions, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, is putting the continent’s unrivaled diversity and its vibrant culinary heritage at the centre stage through its ‘Tastes of Africa Food Festival.’
The ‘Tastes of Africa Food Festival’ is a lively tribute to the African continent’s rich cuisine, culture, and diversity.
The event, which is mirroring Africa’s extraordinary history and cultural fabric in the ongoing United Nations Genera
l Assembly (UNGA) Meetings in New York, United States, held to wide acclaimed yesterday, Wednesday, September 20, 2023.
The food showpiece, which attracted UNGA participants and African residents of New York, had as its goal “to unite a diverse group of people for a delightful adventure in savoring the rich flavors of Africa.”
Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of UBA America, Sola Yomi-Ajayi, had expressed her thoughts ahead of the significant event. She had highlighted that UBA, as a global financial institution with deep African roots, had deliberately chosen to celebrate culture through the medium of food. “This decision aims to foster connections that transcend geographical boundaries.”
Guests were treated to a delightful array of African delicacies, expertly crafted by seasoned chefs. It was also an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of African traditions.
Esteemed chefs from both Africa and North America, such as Chef Jay-Jean-Francois from Cote d’Ivoire and Tolu Roberts – Chef Eros, a renowned Nigerian chef with international acclaim, were present to display their culinary expertise.
“As Africa’s global bank, UBA has always been driven by a profound commitment to connecting Africa to the world. Our vision extends beyond borders, and we see ourselves as more than just a financial institution.
“We are thrilled to host the Tastes of Africa Food Festival at the UNGA Meetings in New York. This event is not just about savouring the exquisite flavours of African cuisine but also about celebrating the richness of African culture. It serves as a testament to UBA’s commitment to promoting cultural diversity and unity, bridging continents through the universal language of food. We invite everyone to join us in this exciting event,” she said.
Yomi-Ajayi emphasized that through initiatives such as the Tastes of Africa Food Festival, UBA is dedicated to establishing platforms that encourage cultural exchange, enhance connections between Africa and the global community, and highlight the vast potential of the continent.
“We believe that by celebrating Africa’s culinary and cultural richness on the global stage, we can contribute to a deeper understanding of the continent and forge lasting connections that will drive progress, innovation, and prosperity for all. UBA remains dedicated to being the bridge that brings Africa to the world and the world to Africa, uniting diverse cultures and creating opportunities for growth and collaboration,” she added.
