Mr Hiroshi Yashimoto, the Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, has presented a certificate and plaque conferring Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador status on Chef Kahori Kishi, owner of Kishitei, a Japanese Restaurant in Osu, Accra.
He charged her to promote Japanese culinary traditions and deepen cultural ties between Japan and Ghana.
The ceremony, held in Accra, recognised Chef Kishi’s role in advancing authentic Japanese cuisine and fostering cultural exchange through food, and becoming the first female Japanese national on the African continent to receive the designation.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Yashimoto explained that the Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador programme, established by Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in 2015, seeks to promote traditional Japanese food culture and its associated values globally.
Ambassador Yashimoto noted that over 170 ambassadors have been appointed worldwide, with only a few from Africa.
He described Chef Kishi as a fitting choice, citing her commitment to preserving traditional culinary practices and her philosophy of using natural ingredients to promote healthy living and overall well-being.
The Ambassador highlighted that Japanese cuisine, recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2013, went beyond taste to emphasise nutrition, balance, and respect for nature.
“I am confident that Chef Kishi will use her platform to promote Japanese food culture through her culinary work and special events, while also incorporating local Ghanaian ingredients to strengthen cultural integration,” he added.
Ambassador Yashimoto noted that Chef Kishi’s restaurant had become a hub for interaction among members of the diplomatic community and Ghanaian patrons, describing it as a space where cultural exchange was actively taking place.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Japanese Embassy to promoting Japanese culture in Ghana, adding that growing interest in Japanese cuisine among Ghanaians reflected the deepening relationship between the two countries.
Chef Kishi’s appointment is expected to further strengthen cultural diplomacy between Ghana and Japan through food, lifestyle, and shared values.
Chef Kahori Kishi, the Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador, pledged to promote authentic Japanese cuisine and its cultural values.
She expressed gratitude for the honour, describing it as a privilege she accepts with humility and a strong sense of responsibility.
She noted that her culinary practice had always focused on preparing traditional Japanese meals using carefully selected natural ingredients, while avoiding artificial seasonings and maintaining strict hygiene and safety standards.
Chef Kishi explained that washoku, Japan’s traditional cuisine, represented more than just taste, emphasizing its role in nourishing both the body and mind through the use of natural and balanced ingredients.
She added that her approach was guided by the philosophy that food was fundamental to health and well-being.
Chef Kishi highlighted the concept of ishoku dogen: the belief that food and medicine shared the same origin, stressing that daily meals played a vital role in supporting healthy living.
“With this appointment as encouragement, I will continue to share the true beauty of Japanese cuisine and the wisdom behind our food culture, which promotes balance and well-being,” she said.
GNA
