Africa Day Flavours at the Parmesan Project

Food has a unique way of bringing people together, and that spirit was at the heart of the Parmesan Project, part of the SICAP programme at Clare Local Development Company.

Over four weeks in May, participants gathered at the Scout Hall in Ennis to cook, share stories, and connect through food in a relaxed and welcoming environment. The programme brought together people from different countries and cultures, creating space not just for cooking, but for conversation and community.

In the final week, just ahead of Africa Day, the group explored the rich and vibrant flavours of African cuisine. Blessing Oligbi led the session, sharing her recipe for Jollof Rice — a dish known for its bold flavours, colourful ingredients, and deep cultural roots across West Africa.

Participants learned how to prepare the dish step by step, while also hearing about its significance and the variations found across different countries. As with each week of the programme, the session was about more than food — it was about connection, storytelling, and shared experience.

The Parmesan Project showed how something as simple as cooking together can break down barriers, build confidence, and create lasting friendships. Through initiatives like this, CLDC continues to support inclusion, community engagement, and cultural exchange across County Clare.

Watch highlights from the Africa Day session above:

For more information on SICAP programmes or future community initiatives, contact Alina Senkova at asenkova@cldc.ie.