Morocco triumphed in the 2024 Bocuse d’Or Africa, a prestigious culinary competition held Thursday in Marrakech as part of the Official Tournament of Chefs Africa (TOC Africa). The Moroccan team, led by renowned Chef Moha Fedal and composed of young talents Yassine Bogdad, Youssef Lamghani, and Ahmed Ben Semlali, claimed the top prize after a grueling 5-hour and 35-minute competition. Mauritius and Egypt secured second and third places, respectively.
Elite chefs from Egypt, Ghana, Mauritius, Morocco, and Senegal faced two major challenges that tested their mastery of African culinary techniques while adhering to international presentation standards. The first challenge, “Theme on a Platter,” required teams to elevate a roasted beef sirloin and veal sweetbreads, accompanied by three vegetable garnishes, one of which had to reflect their country’s culinary heritage.
In the second challenge, “Theme on a Plate,” teams created an entire menu centered around carrots, featuring an appetizer, a main course with three scallops, and a dessert.
“The Moroccan team rose to the occasion. It was an impressive display of finesse,” remarked Davy Tissot, winner of the 2023 Bocuse d’Or World and president of the international jury for the 2024 Bocuse d’Or Africa. Tissot praised Moroccan gastronomy for its richness and diversity, reflecting the hospitality and unique cultural heritage of the country.
Chef Moha Fedal expressed his pride in the Moroccan team’s accomplishment, especially after a fierce competition with talented chefs. “Our chefs did Morocco proud and gave their all to win this title for the second time, following our victory in 2018,” he said emotionally.
Kamal Rahal Essoulami, CEO of Rahal Events and president of TOC Africa, highlighted that this tournament, held under the patronage of King Mohammed VI, is more than just a culinary contest; it celebrates African gastronomic heritage. He emphasized that TOC Africa provides a platform for African chefs to innovate and showcase their countries’ culinary strengths before a distinguished jury of experts.
The tournament will continue on Friday with the African Pastry Cup, celebrating pastry arts through a series of challenges showcasing creations from pastry masters across Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Mauritius, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia. Contestants will compete for 10 hours in categories like “Tasting Challenges” and “Artistic Challenges,” with a focus on spectacular and mouthwatering creations.
Winners of both the Bocuse d’Or Africa and the African Pastry Cup will represent their nations at the prestigious SIRHA World Final in Lyon in 2025.
In addition to reinforcing Morocco’s culinary reputation, these competitions highlight the country’s role as a driving force in African cooperation, fostering cross-border exchanges and cultural collaboration.
