The culinary arts point to the rich history, diversity, and influence of the African diaspora, to be explored at the upcoming Global Black Impact Summit on February 27, 2024, in Dubai

Food is a unique storyteller, a cultural bridge, and a carrier of traditions. As a result, the culinary traditions and rich tapestry of cuisines belonging to the global Black community have played a valuable role in contemporary culture. These traditions illustrate the inspiration, creativity, and shared heritage of Black people and serve as a common thread that connects diverse cultures and geographies. From the shores of West Africa to the vibrant streets of the Caribbean, the African diaspora’s flavors, techniques, and dishes have transcended borders, uniting people from across the globe. The Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) — which unites and celebrates the achievements of the global Black community on February 27, 2024, in Dubai — will explore the influence of the African diaspora on a wide range of industries, such as the culinary arts.

Africa: The Roots of Flavor

An exploration into the culinary heritage of the global Black community begins with the roots of African cuisine. The continent’s diverse landscape and myriad cultures have given rise to a vast array of ingredients, cooking methods, and flavors. In West Africa, staples like yams, okra, plantains, and a variety of vibrant spices are central to the local cuisine, with traditional local dishes including Jollof rice, Fufu – made from cassava root – and Egusi soup. In South Africa, the fusion dish Bobotie – a spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping – reflects the country’s historical influences, blending Dutch, Malay, and Indian flavors. Central Africa contributes to this culinary tapestry with dishes like Saka-Saka in Congo, made from cassava leaves cooked with spices, and Poulet Nyembwe in Gabon, featuring chicken in a rich red palm nut sauce. These dishes highlight the use of local ingredients and establish the roots of traditional African cuisines across regions. 

The African Diaspora and a Fusion of Cultures

Starting from the 16th century, the transatlantic slave trade facilitated the movement of millions of Africans to various parts of the world, including the Americas and the Caribbean. These journeys brought with them longstanding culinary traditions, which, over time, evolved and adapted to the ingredients and resources found locally while preserving the foundations of authentic cooking methods and flavors.

In the Caribbean, the fusion of African, indigenous, and European culinary traditions and techniques gave birth to Creole cuisine. Dishes like Gumbo — a hearty stew served over rice and Callaloo — a leafy green stew — showcase the rich melding of influences. They tell the story of a resilient people who had to adapt and create new traditions while preserving their roots. In the United States, African Americans developed Soul Food, a cuisine that celebrates their enduring connection to their African heritage. Dishes like collard greens, a flavorful leafy green dish, cornbread, and fried chicken stand apart from traditional African dishes. Yet they provide more than just sustenance; they serve as a celebration of cultural resilience, warmth, protection, and identity.

The influence of the African diaspora on global cuisine is undeniable. Dishes like Acarajé in Brazil – a stuffed fritter sold and eaten as street food – find their roots in the Yoruba people from Nigeria, Benin, and Togo, while Ackee and saltfish – Jamaica’s national dish – was initially brought to the Caribbean from Ghana and stems from the name for the Akyem people. These examples reflect how the diaspora has enriched culinary traditions around the world and are a testament to its enduring impact on food and culture.

Pioneers and Innovators in the Culinary World

Throughout history, pioneering Black chefs have broken barriers in the culinary world. In the US, renowned chefs like Edna Lewis and Patrick Clark paved the way for the next generation of Black chefs to innovate and shape the world of food. Chef Marcus Samuelsson, an Ethiopian-born Swedish-American, is renowned for his culinary empire that spans from Harlem to Sweden. Kwame Onwuachi, a Nigerian-American chef, has left his mark on the culinary scene with a background that includes training in the world’s top kitchens. Sheldon Simeon, a Filipino-Black chef, celebrates the fusion of two cultures by exploring the ancestral roots of Hawaiian cuisine. 

GBIS 2024 strives to recognize and celebrate the achievements of Black individuals across industries, with a view to creating a more diverse and inclusive professional landscape. Just as culinary traditions continue to evolve and innovate, the Summit aims to unleash the full potential of the global Black community and explore the vast array of traditions and heritage associated with the African diaspora.

Global Black Impact Summit

The Global Black Impact Summit is an annual event that celebrates the achievements of the Black community, promotes excellence, and explores untapped potential across various fields. The 2024 summit is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions, and networking opportunities that enable delegates to reach new heights. To secure your spot at this prestigious gathering, register promptly at www.GlobalBlackImpact.com.