Agadir is gearing up to become a pivotal hub for African gastronomy for three days, from September 22 to 24, 2026. Morocco will host TOC Afrique, which will feature the Bocuse d'Or Africa, the African Pastry Cup, and La Liste Africa. This significant event is organized by Rahal Event, a subsidiary of the Rahal Group, under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
Renowned chefs, pastry chefs, national teams, juries, and professionals from several African countries are expected to converge in the Souss capital for these exciting culinary events. The competitions will take place at the Palais des Congrès La Dune d'Or, while La Liste Africa will be hosted at the Domaine Limoune.
This edition represents a remarkable opportunity for Morocco to showcase its gastronomic expertise and its ability to host continental competitions. TOC Afrique aims to combine the thrilling competition among the finest African teams with the celebration of restaurants, chefs, and professionals who are instrumental in furthering the continent's culinary landscape.
Morocco will be prominently represented in both major competitions. In the Bocuse d'Or Africa, Abdessamad Dandani will champion Moroccan colors with Ahmed El Hilali serving as commis and Issam Rhachi as coach, while Rachid Maftouh will lead the team as its president. For the African Pastry Cup, Morocco will be represented by El Mehdi Benbiga for chocolate and Mourad Msour for sugar, under the presidency of Mohamed El Yazidi.
The stakes extend beyond the Agadir rendezvous, as these African competitions pave the way to the prestigious international finals held in Lyon. Following the African Pastry Cup, the top three teams will earn qualification for the global finals, scheduled for January 2027, with additional invitations possible based on competition rules.
The Bocuse d'Or Africa serves as the continental selection for the competition initiated by Paul Bocuse in 1987. Participants are required to demonstrate technical mastery, creativity, and culinary identity in a format akin to that of the world finals.
La Liste Africa complements the event, focusing on chefs, restaurants, and other stakeholders who contribute to the visibility of the African gastronomic scene. Its integration into TOC Afrique brings together culinary competition and recognition of industry professionals in a single event.
Agadir and its surrounding region play a central role in the organization of the event. Taghazout Bay, the Marriott Taghazout Bay, and the Radisson Residence are collaborating to provide accommodations for the delegations. The Souss-Massa region is also among the partners mobilized for this edition.
Finally, TOC Afrique is part of a well-structured pathway at the Moroccan level. The TOC Morocco, held biennially during the CREMAI exhibition, allows the Kingdom's talents to compete for a chance to participate in continental competitions. This time, Agadir will serve as the stage where Moroccan representatives will meet their African counterparts, with eyes set on the global finals.
As reported by lenouvelliste.ma.
