In memory of Carlo Petrini

Africa is both the future of our planet—and a place where some of the deepest injustices in the global food system persist.

Carlo Petrini saw this clearly and chose to act. 

From his vision, the Slow Food Gardens in Africa project was born: a way for communities to reclaim control over food production, protect local biodiversity, and build fair, resilient food systems rooted in culture and care. 

Since 2011, this initiative has supported thousands of school and community gardens across the continent—engaging more than half a million people and expanding access to fresh, healthy food for entire communities. 

Carlo also believed deeply in the power of education to transform the future. He worked tirelessly to open the doors of the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Pollenzo to students from Africa, helping nurture a new generation of leaders ready to rethink food systems with responsibility, curiosity, and respect for cultural and biological diversity. 

Through scholarships, he gave many talented young people the opportunity to learn, grow, and bring change back to their communities.