By Naveed Miraj and Shahid Qureshi
ISLAMABAD: The Africa Day 2024 celebrations shone a spotlight on Ethiopian cuisine, captivating participants with its rich flavors, cultural significance, and diverse offerings.
The event, aimed at fostering stronger ties between African nations and Pakistan, featured vibrant cultural shows, displays of African heritage, and a tantalizing array of cuisines from various African countries.
uests were warmly welcomed by Mohamed Karmoune, Dean of the African Group and Ambassador of Morocco, along with other heads of missions from African nations. Pakistan’s Minister for Energy Mussadaq Masood Malik was the chief guest.
Highlighting the culinary diversity, different African countries including Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, Tunisia, Sudan, Zimbabwe, and others showcased their unique flavors at food stalls.
Among these, the Ethiopian stall organized by the Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in Islamabad garnered significant attention. Patrons indulged in a variety of savory delights such as Enjra, Doro Wot, Shiro Wot, Kitfo, Chechebsa with honey, Minchet, Fosolia, Tibs, Ayeb, Defo Dabo, and the renowned Ethiopian coffee.
Visitors enthusiastically shared their admiration for Ethiopian cuisine, with many expressing how it resonated with Pakistani spices and culinary traditions, forging a meaningful cultural connection between the two nations. Adnan Hameed, one of the attendees, praised dishes like Enjra and Doro Wot for sparking his palate and inspiring him to explore more of Ethiopian culinary offerings.
Jamila, a member of the Ethiopian diaspora in Pakistan, voiced pride in her heritage’s unique cuisine, describing its vibrant flavors as irresistible. “Every bite of Ethiopian food leaves you craving for more,” she shared confidently.
The event not only celebrated Africa Day but also served as a testament to the power of food in uniting diverse cultures, fostering mutual appreciation, and creating lasting memories of shared culinary experiences.
