'Chefs are cultural ambassadors and economic drivers'

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Apostle Grace Lubega, head of Phaneroo Ministries, has challenged chefs to dream big, beyond Uganda, so that they become trailblazers who will market the country to the outside world. 

Drawing from global insights, Lubega said the food and hospitality industry contributes significantly to national and global economies.

Lubega made the remarks while officiating at the graduation ceremony of 151 chefs at the Vine Culinary School in Kigoowa, Ntinda on Saturday (April 12).  The group included 10 males.

Some of the graduands. (Courtesy)

They received certificates and diplomas in food production at a graduation attended by over 150 guests, including parents and professional chefs.

“Chefs are not just cooks,” said Lubega.

“They are cultural ambassadors, economic drivers, and creators of experiences. In many countries, the culinary industry contributes up to 10 per cent of the GDP. Uganda can achieve the same through innovation and professionalism in food services.”

'We are building brands'

Sheila Ahabwe, the culinary school's founder, thanked Mastercard Foundation, whose sponsorship made it possible for the majority of the graduates to access quality training and resources.



The fresh graduates​ also shared testimonies about how the programme has transformed their lives.

“I used to sell snacks on the roadside. Today, I run a fully registered catering business with increasing clientele,” said one female graduate.

Ahabwe is deputy president of the Uganda Professional Chefs Association (UPCA). She commended the graduates for their resilience, skill, determination, as well as their commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry.

“We are not just producing cooks. We are building brands, shaping leaders, and transforming communities through food," she said.