About

Hi, I'm Sonika Mbewe

I’m the founder of Tastes of Africa - Zambia. Born and raised in Zambia, I spent my formative years in both Zambia and Australia, experiencing a blend of cultures and cuisines that sparked my love for food and its cultural significance. My journey in gastronomy led me to create The African Food Festival in Lusaka, Zambia, in 2019, a successful event that celebrates the culinary diversity of African countries. The festival has grown significantly, attracting participants from over 20 countries and winning an award for the "Best Tourism Marketing Campaign of the Year" at the Tourism Excellence Awards of the Zambia Tourism Agency in 2023.

With a background that includes working for Delivery Hero in Germany, I observed the significant underrepresentation of African food in Europe. This experience inspired me to establish Tastes of Africa - Zambia in 2024, with the goal of promoting Zambian and African foods and cultures on a global scale. Through Tastes of Africa - Zambia, I am committed to educating future generations about sustainable and healthy eating, supporting local communities, and showcasing the vibrant and diverse culinary traditions of Africa.

My passion for African cuisine is also deeply rooted in my diverse family heritage. Besides Zambia, my family has roots in Ethiopia, Senegal, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. This rich cultural background has further fueled my love for African food from a wide variety of countries, inspiring me to share these flavors with the world.