At CANEX WKND 2026, the culinary rivalry between Nigeria, Ghana and Senegal takes centre stage in the competition. In Lagos, a blind tasting of jollof rice will determine which of several African countries’ culinary traditions comes out on top. Beyond the rankings, this initiative aims to promote culinary diversity, strengthen cultural exchanges and use gastronomy as a means of raising the continent’s profile.
Following previous editions won by Ghana in Cairo and Senegal in Algeria, the Africa Jollof Wars 3.0 culinary contest brought together three leading countries this year to compete in the final. Held during CANEX WKND 2026, the competition featured Nigeria, Ghana and Senegal in a blind tasting challenge. At the end of the voting, Nigeria claimed first place, ahead of Ghana and Senegal, showcasing its rich culinary tradition.
“I would like to thank CANEX for providing us with such a platform, which has allowed me to represent Nigeria in a culinary competition of this scale. We must promote Nigerian cuisine and, more broadly, African gastronomy.”
Ladipo Ayodeji, Winner of the Africa Jollof Wars 3.0 competition – Nigeria
“What sets Senegalese rice apart is its more standardised flavour. Personally, I would favour a preparation that is less smoky, with a milder smoky flavour. So I would tend to prefer Senegalese jollof. However, I recognise the universal appeal of Nigerian jollof. And, of course, the best jollof won.”
Ebi Elombi, President of ASNET (Afreximbank Spouses Network) – Cameroon
Beyond the friendly rivalry over the best jollof rice, the competition highlights the distinctive features of national recipes and their cultural richness. Three varieties of jollof rice were sampled in a blind tasting by an audience including visitors from Nigeria, Ghana, The Gambia and Senegal. This interactive experience turns culinary differences into an opportunity for dialogue and closer ties.
“This is simply a culinary competition that highlights the differences between jollof rice recipes and dishes. The main aim is to promote unity, celebrate our cultures, showcase our culinary heritage and highlight the diversity of our recipes.”
Hilda Baci, Competition Moderator – Nigeria
This initiative demonstrates the potential of gastronomy to promote Africa’s cultural and creative industries. Through recipes, expertise and local produce, cuisine becomes a means of preserving cultural identity and enhancing international appeal. At CANEX, the jollof rice competition is a reminder that culinary traditions can also help bring people together and showcase Africa’s heritage.
