Renowned Ghanaian culinary entrepreneur and food content creator Chef Abbys has called for a national conversation on the future of Ghanaian cuisine, appealing directly to President John Dramani Mahama to support efforts aimed at promoting the country’s food culture internationally.
The celebrated chef, born Abena Amoakoa Sintim-Aboagye, made the appeal through a social media post in which she expressed her desire to share a meal with the President and discuss strategies for elevating Ghanaian cuisine to greater prominence on the global stage.
“Sir JDMahama, I would be deeply honoured to cook with you someday. Over a meal, I’d love for us to explore the future of Ghanaian food, culture and how we can showcase our cuisine to the world,” she wrote.
The request reflects Chef Abbys’ longstanding commitment to using food as a tool for cultural promotion, tourism development and international engagement.
Over the years, she has emerged as one of Ghana’s most influential culinary ambassadors, leveraging digital platforms to celebrate traditional dishes, indigenous ingredients and African food heritage.
Her growing influence has extended far beyond Ghana’s borders. Through a series of international culinary engagements, Chef Abbys has introduced global audiences to Ghanaian cooking traditions while promoting the country’s cultural identity through food.
Among her notable achievements was a culinary tour across the United Kingdom, where she conducted cooking masterclasses and food experiences designed to educate participants about authentic Ghanaian cuisine.
She also gained international recognition after leading a special menu takeover at Snapchat’s UK headquarters, serving more than 300 employees a selection of Ghanaian dishes, including jollof rice and fried yam.
The initiative was widely praised for showcasing the richness and diversity of Ghanaian food culture to an international audience.
Beyond content creation, Chef Abbys continues to invest in culinary education and entrepreneurship through the Chef Abbys School of Food (CASOF), where aspiring chefs and food entrepreneurs receive practical training and mentorship.
She also organizes food tours, culinary workshops and immersive cooking experiences that encourage both locals and visitors to appreciate Ghana’s diverse culinary traditions.
Her latest appeal comes at a time when African countries are increasingly exploring ways to use cuisine as a driver of tourism, cultural diplomacy and economic development.
Advocates argue that greater investment in food promotion can boost tourism, create employment opportunities, support local agriculture and strengthen national branding efforts.
For Chef Abbys, the goal extends beyond individual recognition. Her vision is to see Ghanaian cuisine become a globally recognised cultural asset, celebrated alongside some of the world’s most influential culinary traditions.
By seeking engagement with the President, she hopes to spark broader discussions on how government, industry stakeholders and culinary professionals can work together to position Ghana as a leading destination for African food, culture and gastronomic tourism.
