MONROVIA – Ruth Kwanwah of Nimba County has been crowned Liberia’s best cook after emerging as the winner of the 2026 Liberia National Cooking Championship, held over the weekend at the Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Sports Complex in Paynesville.
The two-day competition brought together contestants from across Liberia, showcasing the country’s rich culinary traditions and diverse local cuisines. Kwanwah impressed judges with her cooking skills, creativity, presentation, and mastery of traditional Liberian dishes to secure the championship title.
Contestant Agnes Menyongar of Grand Bassa County finished in second place, while Steffie Kamara Weah of Lofa County claimed third position in the highly competitive event.
The championship highlighted the unique culinary identities of Liberia’s counties, particularly Nimba and Grand Bassa, both renowned for their cassava-based dishes. While the two counties share a strong tradition of cassava preparation, each is known for its distinct methods and recipes that reflect local tastes and cultural heritage.
Following her victory, Kwanwah expressed gratitude to the organizers and supporters, dedicating her win to the people of Nimba County.
The Liberia National Cooking Championship is aimed at promoting local cuisine, preserving cultural food traditions, and encouraging excellence in the culinary arts. Organizers described this year’s event as one of the most successful editions, attracting large crowds and widespread public interest.
The competition also served as a platform for contestants to demonstrate the richness of Liberian cuisine and the important role food plays in preserving the nation’s cultural identity.
