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Food brings us together and gives us a seat at the global table – this is why African Food Network is thrilled to honor the 100 Most Influential People in the African Food Industry who are changing how the world views and tastes our continent’s vibrant food culture and culinary heritage.
Changemakers from all regions of Africa who have made an impact through entrepreneurship, advocacy, innovation, and preservation of culinary traditions.
We divided the continent into four zones – South, North, East, and West Africa – and selected remarkable individuals from each area. Our criteria focused on chefs, farmers, writers, foodpreneurs, and influencers who have elevated African cuisine globally or in their local communities.
Their work spans opening restaurants at home and abroad; publishing cookbooks; campaigning for improved food security; experimenting with traditional ingredients in exciting new ways, developing new recipes and mentoring the next generation.
2. Bertus Basson
Bertus Basson, a South African chef, blends tradition with innovation at restaurants like Overture. Born in Stellenbosch, he’s a key figure in elevating South African cuisine. He is celebrated for blending traditional South African ingredients with modern techniques.
Area of specialization | Chef and Restauranteur |
Social media handle | @bertusbasson |
Country of origin | South Africa |
3. Siba Mtongana
Siba Mtongana, born in the Eastern Cape, is a prominent South African chef known for her vibrant cooking style and the popular TV show “Siba’s Table.” Beyond television, she’s an accomplished author and entrepreneur, contributing to the global promotion of South African cuisine.
Area of specialization | Chef, Author and Restauranteur |
Social media handle | @sibamtongana |
Country of origin | South Africa |
4. Pierre Thiam
Pierre Thiam is a chef, author, and social activist best known for bringing West African cuisine to the global fine-dining world. Pierre is also the Executive Chef of the award-winning restaurant Nok by Alara in Lagos, Nigeria and the Signature Chef of the five-star Pullman Hotel in Dakar, Senegal.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | @chefpierrethiam |
Country of origin | Senegal |
5. Elijah Amoo Addo
Elijah Amoo Addo was born in 1990, Elijah has risen to be a highly decorated chef, entrepreneur, and activist. Elijah has received several awards and recognition for his culinary expertise and social development campaigns. he attended Sphinx school and catering services and completed his culinary studies. Addo was inspired to start an N.G.O. (Chefs for Change Ghana Foundation) after meeting a mentally challenged man scrapping for food.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Ghana |
6. Eric Adjepong
Eric is a Ghanaian-American born and raised in New York, but make no mistake, his mastery of West African dishes is unparalleled. Eric made it to the finals of season 16 of Bravo’s Top Chef and was famous for sourcing most of his flavors and recipes from West African dishes.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle |
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Country of origin | Ghana |
7. Gbubemi Fregene
Chef Fregz, born Gbubemi Fregene in Abeokuta, grew up in Benin City. He studied Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management at Covenant University and further refined his culinary expertise at Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute in France.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
8. Tolulope Erogbogbo
Chef Eros, born Tolulope Erogbogbo, is a trailblazing culinary artist and the first-ever brand ambassador for Shoprite Nigeria. From selling seasoned chicken in school while studying International Business Management in the UK, he’s now a passionate advocate for putting Nigerian food on the global stage.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
9. Atim Ukoh
Atim Ukoh, widely recognized as Afrolems, stands among Nigeria’s top food bloggers, renowned for a decade-long commitment to educating the global audience about Nigerian cuisine. Specializing in African and, particularly, Nigerian food, Atim shares kitchen tips, cooking expertise, and captivating recipes, since 2009.
Area of specialization | Food Blogger |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
10. Joy Etor
Joy Etor, a dedicated mom, influencer, and recipe developer, creates delightful recipes daily. Her multifaceted role includes serving as a brand ambassador and collaborating on diverse projects and advertisements.
Area of specialization | Food Influencer |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
11. Haruna Fatima Nasiru
Chef Fatima, a multifaceted talent—professional chef, radio host, culinary trainer, and entrepreneur. Her accolades from the State University of New York Global Food Initiative, including Certified Culinary Professional and Master Certified Food Service Professional, appraise her expertise. Known for conducting cooking training and master classes, she shapes a new wave of chefs, leaving an indelible mark on the culinary world through her diverse roles and extensive knowledge.
Area of specialization | Culinary expert, Consultant & food tourist |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
12. Benny Masekwameng
Benny Masekwameng, a South African chef and TV personality, gained fame as a judge on MasterChef South Africa. Alongside his role on the M-Net reality cooking series, he serves as the Executive Chef at Mondovino Restaurant in Sun Square, part of Southern Sun’s Montecasino. Masekwameng is recognized for his culinary expertise and contribution to the vibrant South African food scene.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | @chef_bennym |
Country of origin | South Africa |
13. Lebogang Tlokana
Lebogang Tlokana, aka The Funny Chef, is a multi-talented South African figure born on March 22, 1990, in Pretoria. Overcoming challenges as the only black female in an Afrikaans school, she later pursued culinary education, becoming a chef. Renowned for her comedic prowess, she gained fame with skits, notably one imitating a Pretoria girl’s reaction to finding R14-million. Tlokana is the host of SABC 1’s Plate It Up Season 2 and the author of “The Funny Chef’s Delicious Dishes.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | @the_funnychef |
Country of origin | South Africa |
14. Zola Nene
Zola Nene is a renowned South African chef, food stylist, and television personality. She gained widespread recognition as a judge on the popular cooking show “The Great South African Bake Off.” Nene is also an accomplished author, known for her cookbook “Simply Delicious,” which showcases her passion for creating accessible and delectable dishes. With a warm and engaging approach, Zola Nene has become a beloved figure in South Africa’s culinary landscape.
Area of specialization | Chef and Author |
Social media handle | @zola_nene |
Country of origin | South Africa |
15. Antoinette De Chavonnes Vrugt
Antoinette de Chavonnes Vrugt is a popular chef and the top cookbook author in Namibia. Her first book, “My Hungry Heart,” won a special award for being one of the best cookbooks globally for African cuisine in 2009. This was a significant achievement as it was the first time a Namibian book had been recognized at the International Gourmand Awards, often called the “Oscars of Food Awards.”
Area of specialization | Chef and Author |
Social media handle | @antoinettedechavonnes |
Country of origin | Namibia |
16. Sifo Sinoyolo
Sinoyolo Sifo is a pharmacist by profession, and a self-taught home cook and social-media food influencer by passion. His goal is to break the gender stereotypes that surround male figures in the kitchen and encourage more men to cook.
Area of specialization | Chef and Author |
Social media handle | @sifo_the_cooking_husband |
Country of origin | South Africa |
17. Tawanda Marume
Tawanda Marume is currently serving as the Vice-Chairman of the recently formed Sommeliers Association of Zimbabwe in charge of South African members and the holder of the Best Sommelier of Zimbabwe 2020 title.
Area of specialization | Sommelier |
Social media handle | @tawanda.marume |
Country of origin | Zimbabwe |
18. Kudakwashe A. Makoni
Kudakwashe A. Makoni is a Culinary Arts Management graduate from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. He also holds degrees in political science biology and an MBA in Corporate Governance and Finance. With a passion for culinary arts, he climbed the ranks from Front of House roles to becoming a Group Executive Chef for Groupe Sebastien in Accra, Ghana. His expertise in setting up profitable kitchens spans the US, UAE, Bahrain, and Zimbabwe.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | @chefkudamakoni |
Country of origin | Zimbabwe |
19. Jackie Cameron
Jackie Cameron is an award-winning chef and founder-principal of the Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine in Howick.
Area of specialization | Chef and Author |
Social media handle | @jackiecameronincolour |
Country of origin | South Africa |
20. Liam Tomlin
Liam Tomlin is a distinguished South African chef and founder of the acclaimed Chefs Warehouse restaurant group. With a career spanning decades, he has gained international recognition for his innovative culinary approach. Tomlin’s commitment to excellence has led to numerous accolades, establishing him as a prominent figure in the global culinary scene. His restaurants are celebrated for inventive menus, redefining the dining experience and contributing to his significant impact on the culinary world.
Area of specialization | Chef and Restauranteur |
Social media handle | @chefswarehouse_chef_iiamtoiin |
Country of origin | South Africa |
21. Lorna Maseko
Lorna Maseko, renowned as a South African television personality and former professional ballet dancer, has successfully transitioned into a prominent culinary career. As a chef, she has showcased her culinary expertise on various platforms, captivating audiences with her diverse talents. Maseko’s journey reflects not only her accomplishments in dance and television but also her commitment to making a mark in the culinary world, establishing herself as a multifaceted and influential figure.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | @lornamaseko |
Country of origin | South African |
22. Mogau Seshoene
Mogau Seshoene is a trained chef and award-winning cookbook author. She is the Founder of Lazy Makoti, which offers cooking lessons on local South African traditional meals. Amongst her accolades include “Forbes Africa 30 under 30s list.”
Area of specialization | Chef and Author |
Social media handle | @thelazymakoti |
Country of origin | South African |
23. Nthabiseng Nti Ramaboa (Chef Nti)
Nthabiseng Ramaboa, known as Chef Nti, boasts an international cooking show, a restaurant, and a widely acclaimed cookbook. After facing setbacks in her fashion and facilities business, she not only reinvented herself but also emerged as a prominent figure in her new career, inspiring countless others along the way.
Area of specialization | Chef and Author |
Social media handle | @chef_nti |
Country of origin | South Africa |
24. Tshego Stone
Tshego Stone’s culinary journey started with studying Hospitality Management at the University of Johannesburg. Her brand is called Cucumbers and it has gone from being an idea to being a registered business. The business has gone through different phases and it keeps growing. She is currently the South African Ambassador of African Food Network. Recently, she won the Rising Star Award as an Alumnus from the University of Johannesburg.
Area of specialization | Chef and food entrepreneur |
Social media handle | @cucumbers.and.cream_ |
Country of origin | South Africa |
25. Simeon James
Simeon James Mudi, a culinary expert from Nigeria, transitioned from a passion for music to a renowned chef. Starting as a kitchen attendant inspired by his sister, he mastered flavors and techniques through experimentation and YouTube. His journey led to roles at Glee Hotel, QBC Lagos & Ikoyi, and private chef engagements for celebrities. Simeon aspires to own a restaurant and host free food events, a commitment to sharing culinary joy.
Area of specialization | Food Blogger / Culinary Instructor |
Social media handle | @chefcimax |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
26. Nelson Michael (Chef Cupid)
Nelson Michael, also known as Chef Cupid, a self-taught pastry chef inspired by his mother’s catering background, he dedicated himself to perfecting pastry making, food styling, and photography. Joining Red Dish Chronicles Lagos in 2016 as an instructor, he imparts his expertise in French pastry and baking to hundreds of students. Winner of Bailey’s Bake Fest 2, Chef Cupid is a true testament to triumph over challenges, fueled by a passion for being and staying the best. Beyond teaching, his work extends to shooting commercials for various food brands.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | @chefcupid |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
27. Opeyemi Famakin
Opeyemi Famakin, now a renowned food critic, unwittingly entered the industry by documenting family travels for food and sharing experiences on social media. Unaware of becoming a critic, he simply wanted to share the joy of consuming exceptional dishes. His continuous and unwavering reviews have made him a prominent figure in Nigeria’s food and hospitality scene.
Famakin’s journey shows the transformative nature of food, evolving from personal enjoyment to a celebrated career in culinary critique. His passion for exceptional food has propelled him to fame.
Area of specialization | Food Critic |
Social media handle | @opeyeifamakin |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
28. Abiola Akanji (Chef Stone)
Abiola Akanji, Known as Chef Stone was raised in Lagos, Nigeria, honed culinary skills abroad before formal training at the French Culinary Institute in NYC. His early passion for food, cultivated by bonding moments in the kitchen with his mother, led to a lifelong love for cooking. Today, he owns culinary schools in Lagos and Abuja, equally owns restaurants in Abuja where he shares his expertise, and showcases the culmination of his unique culinary journey.
Area of specialization | Chef and Restauranteur |
Social media handle | @chefstoneofficial |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
29. Yemisi Sophie Odusanya
Yemisi Sophie Odusanya popularly known as Sisi Yemmie is a Nigerian food and lifestyle blogger/vlogger that has garnered over 97 million views on YouTube. She is one of the most popular YouTubers in Nigeria with a good following on Instagram.
Area of specialization | Food / Lifestyle Blogger and Author |
Social media handle | @sisi_yemmie |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
30. Omoye Isabota
Omoye was born in Lagos, Nigeria. Being raised in a culturally diverse state had a profound effect on her passion for cooking. One of the most beautiful memories of her childhood was the community of women who would gather together to cook for special occasions. This experience instilled in Omoye a love for culinary arts and a desire to share it with others.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
31. Daniel Ochuko
Daniel Ochuko studied Food Science and Technology at Rivers State University, Port Harcourt. He fell in love with creative styles of food bloggers and decided to start his.
Area of specialization | Food / Lifestyle content creator |
Social media handle | @danielochuko_ |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
32. Akinyemi Oluwaseun Omotayo
Akinyemi Oluwaseun Omotayo is a famous Nigerian social media celebrity known professionally as Asherkine. He has garnered widespread acclaim on Instagram for his content, where he goes around exhibiting his generous act by giving and helping the masses.
Area of specialization | Content Creator |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
33. Lynda Nnamani
Lynda Nnamani is a certified chef and popularly known as the head chef at Lynn Dishes. She is also known as the CEO of Lyn Dishes Culinary School.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | @lyndishes |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
34. Mohamad Baydoun
Chef Mohammad Baydoun, popularly known as Amazing Chef, gained widespread recognition as a social media sensation for his culinary prowess. Originally from Lebanon, he made a significant move to Nigeria, particularly Lagos, driven by a job offer that came his way.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Lebanon |
35. Chris Authentic Traveling
Chris, a passionate American photographer and digital content creator, has undertaken an extraordinary mission – to explore every country in the world. With an adventurous spirit and a camera in hand, he has already immersed himself in the essence of 154 out of the 197 countries on his global journey.
Area of specialization | Digital content creator |
Social media handle | @authentic_traveling |
Country of origin | America |
36. Olushola Medupin
Chef Olushola, known as C3olu, is a Yoruba standout chef renowned for his online mastery and captivating displays of culinary expertise.
Area of specialization | Restaurant Owner (Enish) |
Social media handle |
@c3olu
|
Country of origin | Nigeria |
37. Enioluwa Adeoluwa
Enioluwa Adeoluwa, born on July 6, 1999, in Akure, Ondo, is a prominent Nigerian figure known for his multifaceted talents. Born to Prof. Femi and Bola, he has carved a distinctive path as both a stage and film director. In addition to his directorial accomplishments, Enioluwa has also gained recognition as a well-known food influencer, seamlessly blending his artistic vision with a passion for culinary experiences.
Area of specialization | Food Influencer |
Social media handle | @enioluwaofficial |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
38. Nena Ubani
DuchessNena, a versatile chef with a passion for vegan cooking, extends her talents beyond the kitchen. As an accomplished author and chef educator, she brings a wealth of culinary expertise to diverse realms, showcasing her love for both innovative cuisine and culinary education.
Area of specialization |
Chef Educator & Author |
Social media handle | @duchessNena |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
39. Ladipo Ayodeji
Chef Dee is a Nigerian Food Blogger, Recipe Developer, and Food Tutor. Chef Dee’s passion for food is evident in his delightful food pictures and his knack for curating detailed recipes using everyday home ingredients.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
Mityas is enthusiastic about the opportunity to showcase and promote Nigeria’s rich and diverse culinary heritage to the world. She promotes tourism in Nigeria and the wider African continent, positively impacting the local culinary scene.
Area of specialization | Food tourist |
Social media handle | @mityasfooddiary |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
41. Ruth Agbukor aka Rutie
Rutie is a brand influencer who aspires to live life to the fullest, especially through food. You will mostly see her on the streets of Twitter, living her best life through hilariously curated African food content.
Area of specialization | Influencer |
Social media handle | @rutie_xx |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
42. Taylor Tamod
Chef Taylor Moses Odeje is an acclaimed and award-winning restaurant chef and hospitality consultant, renowned for his exceptional culinary skills and a profound passion for cooking. With an impressive presence on social media, he actively shares his culinary expertise, engaging a wide audience with his delectable creations.
Area of specialization |
Chef, Restaurant/Hospitality Consultant |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
43. Betty Harry
Betty Harry, a seasoned television presenter with more than six years of experience, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication. Beyond her accomplishments in media, she has successfully ventured into the culinary world. Betty is not only the owner of the thriving Peppersoupshop but also a recognized chef, combining her communication skills with a passion for delicious cuisine.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
44. Tobi Fletcher a.k.a Ofada Boy
Tobi Fletcher, also known as “the Ofada boy,” comes from Ofada town in Ogun State, where his family has been involved in growing local Ofada rice for generations. Inspired by his family’s agricultural legacy he has become a skilled chef. His cooking reflects a unique blend of his cultural roots, bringing the flavors of Ofada to the table in a special way.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | @ofadaboy |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
45. Uriel Oputa
Uriel is a businesswoman, a healthy cook, and a fitness and lifestyle boss who shows people how to have healthy weight loss journeys through her wonderfully crafted meal plans.
Area of specialization | Influencer |
Social media handle | @uriel |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
46. Rukayat Momoh aka Chef Giggles
Chef Rukayat, known as Chef Giggles, stands as a prominent culinary figure. Serving as the Executive Chef at Giggles Culinary Place and holding the position of President at the Culinary Arts Practitioners Association Nigeria, she has solidified her role as a leader in the culinary arts community while also being passionate in the Afro-fusion cuisine.
Area of specialization | Chef |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
47.Uju Amaeshi aka restaurantcritic
Uju Amaeshi, known as a restaurant critic, is a distinguished figure in the realm of food critique and digital content creation. Widely recognized for sharing her extensive experiences with food and restaurants, she has established herself as a prominent figure in the culinary world.
Area of specialization | Food Critic |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
48. Paul Kezu
Paul Kezu is a distinguished food digital creator known for his expertise in the realms of food and restaurant experiences. With a passion for culinary exploration and a keen eye for detail, Paul has made a name for himself in the dynamic world of digital content creation.
Area of specialization | Digital Creator |
Social media handle | @paulkezu |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
49. Cynthia Onyeanuna aka Your Food Girl
Cynthia Chinonso, popularly known as Your Food Girl, has earned acclaim as a distinguished food digital creator. Her expertise extends across various domains, including food and restaurant experiences.
Area of specialization | Digital Creator |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
50. Amodu Ayodeji Peter
Ayo The Creator, professionally known as Amodu Ayodeji Peter, has carved a niche for himself as a distinguished Nigerian food content creator. His culinary journey is rooted in a background of commercial and wedding film/photography, showcasing a fusion of his graphic design skills and culinary passion.
Area of specialization | Content Creator |
Social media handle | |
Country of origin | Nigeria |
#AFN100 #AFN100mostinfluentialpeopleinafrica2023
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