Jamaica and South Africa celebrate 30 years of Diplomatic Relations with Culinary Tour
30 October 2024
Jamaica and the Republic of South Africa commemorated 30 years of Diplomatic Relations in September 2024. This coincided with South Africa’s own celebrations of 30 years as a Democratic nation and its Heritage Month. As a result of this shared heritage, the High Commission hosted a Jamaican Culinary Tour of South Africa as the major highlight of the 30th Anniversary celebratory year. Food is a unifying force that brings together our two nations. The celebration of the uniqueness of Jamaican food signalled the commitment of Jamaica to forging stronger and more lasting relations with South Africa through creative cultural collaborations.
Award-winning Executive Chef Brian Lumley, one of Jamaica’s best talents in the culinary field, spearheaded the Tour which began on 21st September 2024. He is an award-winning Executive Chef who has etched his name among Jamaica's finest culinary masters. Renowned for his humility, creativity warmth, and impeccable work ethic both inside and outside the kitchen, he stands out as a respected figure in the global culinary industry.
Notably, he became the youngest chef to be awarded the prestigious "Chef of the Year" title at the Taste of Jamaica competition, securing the honour twice, at the age of 21 and then at 25. Additionally, he has joined forces with the Jamaica national culinary team, winning a team gold medal and a personal bronze at the Taste of the Caribbean competition in 2009. The following year, he received the Hans Schenk prize for "Most Innovative Use of Caribbean Ingredients" and a personal silver medal at the same competition. In 2013, Chef Lumley reached a pinnacle in his career by winning the esteemed "Caribbean Chef of the Year" award at the Taste of the Caribbean's regional culinary showcase, marking a significant achievement for a Jamaican chef since 1999. This recognition solidified his position as a true culinary prodigy.
The week-long tour featured partnerships with local entities including masterclasses at the University of Johannesburg’s School of Tourism and Hospitality and the Johannesburg Culinary and Pastry School. The Johannesburg School of Hospitality and Tourism also staged a Jamaican themed lunch on September 26 showcasing Jamaica’s finest cuisine. Another highlight was a well-attended Jamaican dinner at the popular Poppy’s Eatery in Johannesburg.
The five days culminated in a well-attended “A Jamaican Evening of Culinary and Musical Excellence” hosted by Jamaican High Commissioner Joan Thomas Edwards at the Official Residence on 27th September. The event came alive with the sights, sounds and smells of Jamaica as members of the diplomatic community, Friends of Jamaica and government officials mingled to the sounds of rocksteady and reggae while enjoying tasty Jamaican dishes such as jerk pork, stew peas, curried goat, prawn pasta, goat head soup, rum punch and other delicacies.
Jamaican High Commission in South Africa