Sierra Leone’s leading seasoning brand, ONGA, marketed by Premium Divine Trading Company Limited, has successfully concluded the 3rd edition of the ONGA Awojor Fiesta – Salone Jollof Battle Edition, with Phebean Kamara emerging as the winner of the maiden national cooking competition. The grand finale, held on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at the Melian Event Center in Murray Town, Freetown, brought together five talented home cooks who competed for the title of Salone Jollof Champion and the opportunity to represent Sierra Leone at the regional ONGA Jollof Battle scheduled for August 22, 2026, in Ghana.
After a competitive cooking session and assessment by a panel of professional judges, Phebean Kamara was crowned champion based on criteria including taste, presentation, creativity, hygiene and cooking techniques. She received Le35, 000 cash, an ONGA product hamper, a standing freezer and an all-expense-paid trip to Ghana, where she will represent Sierra Leone at the regional competition coinciding with the annual celebration of World Jollof Day.
The regional competition will bring together contestants from five West African countries Sierra Leone, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire to compete for regional recognition.
The national competition featured five finalists, including Kadie Turay from Kambia District and Mary Kargbo, Salamatu Kamara, Phebean Kamara and Bintu Yie Octobean from Freetown.
Mary Kargbo emerged as first runner-up, receiving Le15, 000 cash, an ONGA hamper and an electric stove, while Kadie Turay secured the second runner-up position with Le10,000 cash, an ONGA hamper and an electric stove. Bintu Yie Octobean and Salamatu Kamara were placed fourth and fifth respectively, receiving Le5,000 cash, assorted ONGA products, and electric stoves.
The event also featured the official launch of the new ONGA Powder Spice, entertainment activities, lucky dips where attendees won prizes including smart televisions, electric heaters and ONGA products, as well as consumer engagement activities. The company also recognized wholesalers and retailers for their continued contribution to the growth and success of the ONGA brand in Sierra Leone.
Speaking at the event, Marketing Lead at Premium Divine Trading Company Limited, Philip Kanu, said the ONGA Awojor Fiesta was created to celebrate food, culture and community while promoting Sierra Leone’s culinary heritage.
He explained that the word “Awojor” is rooted in Krio culture and refers to a feast or celebration where people gather to enjoy food, fellowship and entertainment. According to him, the addition of “Fiesta” reflects the wider activities of the event, which included music, games, lucky draws and other recreational activities alongside the cooking competition.
Philip Kanu said the maiden Salone Jollof Battle was designed to identify and promote Sierra Leone’s culinary talents while serving as the country’s qualifying competition for the World Jollof Day celebration.
He assured contestants and guests that the competition was conducted fairly and professionally, adding that ONGA remains committed to creating platforms that celebrate local talents and promote Sierra Leone’s food culture.
Representing the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Robert H. Leigh, Assistant Director of Tourism, described the event as an important platform for promoting Sierra Leone’s culture, creativity and gastronomy.
Robert H. Leigh said the ONGA Awojor Fiesta aligns with the Ministry’s focus on culture and creativity, noting that food remains a major component of Sierra Leone’s cultural identity and tourism potential.
He explained that the event serves as a build-up to the UN Tourism Gastronomy Forum, which Sierra Leone is expected to host in December 2026. According to him, the forum will provide the country with an opportunity to showcase its diverse culinary heritage to a global audience.
“As a Ministry we are supporting our food culture because we believe our cuisine is one of the best in the world,” Robert H. Leigh stated.
During the event, Joseph Ashong, Cluster Head of Marketing at Promasidor, launched the new ONGA Powder Spice, describing it as an all-in-one seasoning designed to improve flavour, aroma and appearance of meals.
Joseph Ashong explained that the product contains carefully selected ingredients, including garlic, onion, ginger, chili pepper, black pepper, iodised salt, natural spices, flavour enhancers, sugar and colouring, which combine to deliver a richer taste experience.
He encouraged consumers to use the seasoning in preparing jollof rice, soups, stews, sauces, vegetables and grilled foods, noting that the product helps cooks achieve better aroma and taste with minimal effort.
The new product, he continued, demonstrates ONGA’s commitment to innovation and meeting the changing needs of consumers across Sierra Leone.
He concluded by officially launching the new ONGA Powder Spice Stick Pack, describing it as an innovation aimed at providing consumers with convenience while maintaining the trusted taste and quality associated with the ONGA brand.
Chief Judge of the competition and National President of the Professional Chefs Association of Sierra Leone, Chef Abdul Edward Kainessie, while announcing the result praised all contestants for demonstrating creativity and professionalism throughout the competition.
Chef Abdul Edward Kainessie disclosed that the judging process was based on the African Chefs Association (ACA) criteria, ensuring fairness, transparency and professionalism.
He said contestants were assessed on presentation, taste, hygiene, cooking techniques, creativity and overall performance.
Although only one contestant emerged as champion, Chef Abdul Edward Kainessie described all finalists as winners, noting that their participation demonstrated their commitment and potential in the culinary industry.
He commended ONGA and Premium Divine Trading Company Limited for organizing what he described as a professionally executed competition that promotes Sierra Leone’s culinary identity.
He encouraged Phebean Kamara to serve as a strong ambassador for Sierra Leone at the regional competition in Ghana and showcase the country’s rich food heritage.
Speaking after her victory, Phebean Kamara expressed appreciation to ONGA for creating a platform that celebrates culinary talents.
She attributed her success to hard work, dedication and preparation, while thanking her family, friends and supporters for their encouragement throughout the competition.
Phebean Kamara said she understands the responsibility of representing Sierra Leone at the regional ONGA Jollof Battle and expressed confidence that she will perform well and bring honour to the country.
The ONGA Awojor Fiesta – Salone Jollof Battle Edition has been described by stakeholders as a significant step towards promoting Sierra Leone’s culinary industry, supporting local talents and positioning food culture as an important part of national identity and tourism development.
