World Food Day 2024 and the Gambia Cookery School Project
World Food Day 2024
This year’s World Food Day theme, “Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future,” emphasises the fundamental human right to access diverse, nutrient-rich diets that are affordable, safe, and accessible for everyone. Despite the world producing enough food to nourish its inhabitants, hunger still affects 10% of the global population. Food is not just a necessity; it is a basic human right, as recognised by the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
It is essential to highlight initiatives that align with this theme and work toward a more sustainable and fair food system. One such initiative is the Gambia Cookery School Project, a collaboration between FoodSpace and Waste to Wonder Worldwide. This project embodies the spirit of empowerment, education, and sustainability while addressing the pressing need for food security and nutrition education in Gambia.
The Gambia Cookery School Project
In collaboration with Waste to Wonder, we are proud to support the establishment of a Sustainability Cookery School in Gambia. This project aims to provide culinary education, promote sustainable practices, and empower local communities to grow and prepare their food effectively. Michael Amos, Managing Director of Waste to Wonder Worldwide, has been pivotal in driving this project forward. His passion and dedication have inspired our teams to come together and raise the necessary funds to secure land for the cookery school. This fundraising effort was crucial in laying the foundation for a transformative space that will benefit countless individuals in the region.
Empowering Communities through Education
The Gambia Cookery School is designed to be a community-driven initiative that provides training in culinary skills and agriculture. Participants will learn not only cooking skills but also how to grow sustainable crops in their environment. This will empower them to produce nutritious meals and sell surplus produce at local markets, thereby contributing to the local economy. The circular economy is a core principle of this initiative. By embracing the principles of the circular economy, we are transforming resources into valuable tools that will enhance the school’s operations and support the community’s sustainable practices.
Our Involvement in the Cookery School Project
Conor Spacey, our Culinary Director has been an integral part of the Gambia Cookery School Project, bringing his dedication to the FoodSpace ethos of zero waste to the forefront of the curriculum and practices taught at the school. Conor has infused the teachings with innovative culinary techniques that focus on sustainability, encouraging students to utilise every part of the ingredients they work with. His approach not only minimises waste but also inspires creativity in cooking, teaching students how to create delicious meals from leftover produce.
Conor’s commitment to continuous learning extends beyond just cooking techniques; he cultivates an environment where students are encouraged to explore various culinary practices and develop their skills in a supportive setting. By integrating zero waste principles into the curriculum, he empowers students to make conscious decisions about their food practices, equipping them with the knowledge to advocate for sustainability in their communities.
A Commitment to Sustainability
We believe that sustainability is at the heart of our ethos. By fostering community empowerment through education and sustainable practices, we are working to break the cycle of poverty and food insecurity. Our project aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, emphasising the importance of sustainable food systems and education to improve lives.
As we honour World Food Day 2024, it is crucial to recognise that the fight against hunger and food insecurity requires collective action and commitment from all sectors of society. The Gambia Cookery School Project represents a significant step toward providing culinary education and sustainable practices. By investing in education and empowering individuals with the skills they need to thrive, we are creating a ripple effect that can transform lives and uplift entire communities.
