Eswatini’s own culinary visionary, Chef Thanda Mpumelelo Maphako, widely known as Chef Phakho, continues to elevate the kingdom’s flag on the international stage. From October 29–31, 2025, Chef Phakho proudly represented Eswatini at the Youth Chef Challenge and CAADP 2025 events, held in Kigali, Rwanda.
The prestigious gathering brought together young chefs, agripreneurs, and policymakers from across the continent to advance Africa’s vision for sustainable, nutritious, and culturally grounded food systems.
Invited by Youth4Nutrition, Chef Phakho showcased his creativity and passion through a culturally inspired Eswatini dish that celebrated local ingredients and the richness of traditional cuisine.
His presentation went beyond cooking it was a story of identity, nourishment, and sustainability. Through a step-by-step live demonstration, he emphasized the nutritional value of indigenous foods and the importance of maintaining a strong connection between culture and diet.
“Food tells our story,” Chef Phakho reflected.
“Every ingredient carries history, and every meal is an opportunity to celebrate who we are while inspiring healthier, more conscious choices.”
During the Kigali event, Chef Phakho also participated in a Masterclass on Branding and Communication for Healthy African Diets, where he joined other young culinary leaders to explore how chefs can shape perceptions of African cuisine.
Discussions focused on using digital storytelling to promote traditional foods, building collaborations with local farmers, and advocating for sustainable diets that preserve both health and heritage.
Chef Phakho’s participation highlighted Eswatini’s growing contribution to Africa’s culinary evolution. His ability to blend artistry, wellness, and purpose through food resonated strongly with the event’s theme of “Transforming Africa’s Food Systems Through Youth Innovation.”
Born and raised in Msunduza, Chef Phakho’s journey began in the humble kitchen of his late grandmother, where his love for cooking was first nurtured. Over the years, he has grown into one of Eswatini’s most inspiring culinary figures, known for merging traditional flavors with modern wellness principles. Through his work, he continues to promote healthy living, community empowerment, and cultural pride.
Today, Chef Phakho stands not just as a chef, but as a purpose-driven creative whose craft embodies faith, heritage, and vision. His presence in Kigali reaffirmed Eswatini’s voice in the continental conversation on nutrition and sustainability proving once again that the kitchen can be a powerful platform for change.
