The Mirror, Metro TV, Gino mark AU day with Jollof contest

The Madina Market in Accra came alive yesterday with aromas of Jollof rice, music and dance, as The Mirror and Gino partnered with Metro TV’s 'Cook Africa' TV Show to mark African Union (AU) Day with a Jollof Challenge.

This was the second edition of the challenge, bringing together contestants from different backgrounds. The line-up included, Nigerian Chef Halliday Israel, Oceans Mall Company Limited’s Caroline Pomeyie, CalBank’s Cynthia Obeng and Metro TV’s Sandra Ampofoa Ofosu.

Using Gino Jollof Mix, a product of GB Foods as the main ingredient, each contestant showcased their culinary prowess with their own recipe. 

While Chef Israel served traditional Nigerian Jollof, Miss Pomeyie offered an assorted seafood version. Miss Obeng presented a classic Ghanaian Jollof recipe, and Miss Ofosu added a personal touch with her own take, dubbed Ampofoa’s Jollof.

With an aim to share in the joy of cooking, there were no winners or losers, just good food and vibes. When the dishes were ready, market women, head porters (kayayei) and passers-by joined in the feast.

Speaking to The Mirror, Content Development Manager of Ignite Media Group, parent company of Metro TV, Mr Eddie Seddoh, explained the aim of the 'Cook Africa' TV Show.

“The 'Cook Africa' TV show is about celebrating who we are as Africans. It’s designed to promote African unity and highlight the continent’s rich cultural heritage through food, showcasing the unique ingredients, cooking methods and traditions of each,” he said.

Mr Seddoh added that with support from colleagues including Events Coordinator, Michael Adu Gyamerah and Corporate Social Responsibility Coordinator, Akosua Gyafo, this event would continue to mark AU Day, with each year, bringing new perspectives.  

For the many market women who got to participate in the event, it brought excitement to an otherwise regular Saturday market day. 

“We sell here every day, but today felt different. The music, the food, the people and the dancing, it made the market lively. I even tasted the Nigerian Jollof, it was very nice,” said a vegetable seller, Miss Sarah Ama Serwaa Antwi, who has been trading at the Madina Market for over 15 years.