In an ambitious bid to etch her name in the record books, Gonja culinary expert Sabitu has announced her intention to attempt the Guinness World Record for the Longest Cooking Marathon by an Individual. The well-trained chef plans to cook continuously for 150 hours at the prestigious Jakpa Palace in Damongo, Savannah Region.
Sabitu’s attempt aims to surpass the current world record of 140 hours, 11 minutes, and 11 seconds, held by Evette Quoibia of Australia, who achieved this remarkable feat in Melbourne on February 19, 2024. If successful, her 150-hour marathon would establish a new benchmark in the competitive world of culinary endurance records.
The cooking marathon represents more than just a personal achievement for Sabitu. She hopes to use this platform to showcase the rich culinary heritage of the Savannah Region and introduce authentic local dishes to a global audience. The event promises to be a celebration of Gonja culture and traditional cuisine.
The longest cooking marathon record has seen several changes in recent years. Nigerian chef Hilda Baci (Hilda Effiong Bassey) previously held the record with 93 hours and 11 minutes in 2023, before being succeeded by Irish chef Alan Fisher, who cooked for 119 hours and 57 minutes at his restaurant in Japan. Fisher’s record was eventually broken by the current holder, Evette Quoibia.
The evolution of this record demonstrates the intense competition among chefs worldwide to achieve culinary excellence while testing the limits of human endurance.
The choice of Jakpa Palace as the venue adds significant cultural weight to Sabitu’s attempt. The historic location in Damongo will provide an authentic backdrop for showcasing traditional Savannah Region cuisine to both local supporters and international observers.
Sabitu’s initiative aligns with growing efforts across Africa to use world record attempts as platforms for cultural promotion and international recognition. The cooking marathon is expected to feature an array of local dishes that represent the diverse flavors and cooking techniques of the Gonja people.
As Sabitu prepares for her marathon cooking session, she joins a growing list of African chefs who have used world record attempts to highlight their culinary traditions. The 150-hour target represents not just a personal challenge, but an opportunity to put the Savannah Region’s rich food culture on the global map.
The attempt will require careful planning, tremendous physical endurance, and unwavering determination. If successful, Sabitu will not only claim a world record but also achieve her goal of introducing the world to the distinctive flavors of Gonja cuisine.
The cooking marathon is expected to draw significant attention from both local communities and international media, potentially establishing Damongo as a destination for culinary tourism and cultural exchange.
