Last week, Lusaka played host to one of the most enchanting evenings of the year — La Settimana della Cucina Italiana, celebrated in grand style at the prestigious Neelkanth Sarovar Hotel. The gala, organised by the Embassy of Italy in Zambia, brought together diplomats, high society, and cultural aficionados for a sumptuous celebration of Italian culinary excellence and Zambian-Italian friendship.
A Stylish and Charismatic Host
Presiding over the ceremony with poise and elegance was His Excellency Enrico De Agostini, the Italian Ambassador to Zambia. A stylish and charismatic yet humble leader, Ambassador De Agostini has, since taking up his post in Lusaka, championed numerous cultural initiatives that celebrate and deepen the bonds between Italy and Zambia. His vision for cultural diplomacy has become a hallmark of his tenure.
Among the distinguished guests was Honourable Rodney Malindi Sikumba, Zambia’s Minister of Tourism, whose presence underscored the event’s significance in strengthening bilateral cultural and tourism ties. His attendance highlighted the shared commitment of both nations to promoting heritage, gastronomy, and meaningful exchange.
Culinary Excellence by Chef Giuliano
The culinary star of the evening was Chef Giuliano Truddaiu, who recently published his memoir Vita da Chef. He delivered an extraordinary multi-course experience, beginning with a refined amuse-bouche, followed by antipasti, primi piatti, secondi piatti, and finally a decadent series of desserts. Each course showcased his mastery of Italian gastronomy, prepared with finesse and respect for tradition.
All dishes were thoughtfully paired with vegetarian alternatives, ensuring every guest could enjoy the full culinary journey. The plating and presentation were outstanding — exquisite, artful, and composed in small yet perfectly palatable portions that honoured the elegance of Italian fine dining.
Welcome Toasts & Exquisite Pairings
Guests were welcomed with flutes of fine Italian champagne — the very best, generously provided by Do&To LTD, an Italian-owned distributor known for its premium wines, beverages, and artisanal food imports. The sparkling welcome set the tone for an evening refined in both taste and atmosphere.
Music, Memory & Magic
As dinner unfolded, guests were serenaded by one of Zambia’s most promising rising stars Katende, whose velvety voice added an atmosphere of warmth and sophistication to the evening. Her performance was nothing short of enchanting.
To close the night, the talented duo from Icon Zambia 2025, Katende and Tasha Nyambe delivered a heartfelt performance of the classic Italian song, “Con te partirò,” (A Time to Say Goodbye) made iconic by Luciano Pavarotti. Their rendition was moving and beautifully executed, leaving guests with a lingering sense of wistful nostalgia and heartfelt connection.
A Gala to Remember
All in all, the Embassy of Italy in Lusaka deserves high praise for orchestrating such an enthralling Gala Dinner. It was more than a celebration of cuisine — it was a cultural bridge, a diplomatic affirmation, and a luminous expression of friendship between Zambia and Italy.
Here’s to many more evenings of shared heritage, fine food, and the timeless art of culinary diplomacy.