Lomé will host the fifth edition of Festival La Marmite (FESMA) from August 12 to 16, 2026, showcasing African and Togolese culinary arts under the theme “Promoting Integration and Social Cohesion Through Food.”
The festival has grown into a major culinary gathering in Africa, bringing together chefs, producers, processors, entrepreneurs, and food enthusiasts for five days of activities celebrating the full agri-food value chain—from agricultural production to processing and local consumption.
This year’s edition introduces several new features, including the “Village des Saveurs,” where visitors can explore culinary specialties from Togo’s regions alongside dishes from invited countries. The space aims to immerse attendees in diverse flavors and traditions, highlighting the richness of African cuisine.
Another highlight is “Rencontres de Prestige,” a series of sessions where prominent chefs will share their expertise and the culinary traditions of their home countries. The sessions are designed to foster knowledge exchange and elevate professional skills within the industry.
For FESMA Commissioner General Jean-Paul Agboh Ahouélété, the festival goes beyond a traditional food fair. “FESMA is not just a fair, it is a celebration of African identity. Every dish tells a story and every flavor reflects an identity,” he said. He added that the festival aims to strengthen integration, cooperation, and shared prosperity across the UEMOA region through food.
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Organizers are targeting around 50,000 visitors from Togo and the wider sub-region, reflecting the festival’s growing appeal. The event will feature approximately 200 exhibitors, including chefs, restaurateurs, producers, processors, distributors, and other industry players. About 50 institutions and organizations—such as ministries, donors, international organizations, and investors—are also expected to participate, supporting collaboration and development within the agri-food sector.
Since its inception, FESMA has highlighted the cultural, social, and economic significance of cuisine, positioning food as a medium for promoting African heritage, fostering dialogue, and encouraging regional cooperation.
The 2026 edition promises to further reinforce these objectives, combining professional showcases, culinary demonstrations, and networking opportunities to benefit both the local economy and the broader West African culinary landscape.
With its growing reputation, Festival La Marmite continues to attract attention from across the continent, offering a platform for emerging and established culinary talents to share their knowledge, expand business opportunities, and celebrate African gastronomy in all its diversity.
The festival’s emphasis on storytelling through food aligns with broader efforts to promote cultural identity, integration, and sustainable development within the region, making it a key event on Togo’s cultural and economic calendar.
