DAKAR, Senegal — Senegal is receiving new international support to preserve its rich culinary heritage, with UNESCO highlighting the importance of traditional food practices as part of the country’s cultural identity.

The initiative recognizes that Senegalese cuisine represents more than food. Traditional ingredients, preparation techniques and communal eating practices carry knowledge and cultural traditions passed from one generation to another.

UNESCO says safeguarding these practices can help strengthen cultural identity while supporting the transmission of traditional knowledge to younger generations.

The effort also places Senegal’s culinary traditions within a broader cultural-development agenda, where heritage can contribute to community cohesion, cultural tourism and creative opportunities.

The move gives renewed international attention to Senegal’s food culture, from traditional cooking knowledge to the social practices surrounding meals and food preparation.

For Senegal, protecting culinary heritage offers an opportunity to preserve traditions while ensuring they remain relevant for future generations.