Get ready for a cultural showdown as African nations go head-to-head in this year’s Battle of Jollof. From a heated Jollof rice competition to an exciting basketball tournament, this event celebrates the rich diversity of the diaspora, with BET leading the charge.

Jollof rice is a beloved West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. While it's a staple in many countries across the region, the ongoing debate over which nation makes the best Jollof has become legendary. Nigerians, Ghanaians, and Senegalese, in particular, engage in friendly—but fierce—competition over whose version reigns supreme. This rivalry has even transcended the dinner table, inspiring cultural events like the Battle of Jollof, where food, sports, and pride converge.

As we gear up for this year’s edition, here are seven things you need to know:

1. Founders and Origin The Battle of Jollof was founded in 2020 by Arinze Emeagwali (brand marketer), TJ Adeshola (media executive), and Abdul Abdullah (founder of Afrofuture and ambassador of tourism in Ghana). Their vision was to create a competition that celebrates the diversity and unity of the African diaspora through food and sports. What began as a friendly contest has grown into a vibrant cultural movement, now drawing global attention.
2. A Fusion of Food and Sports At its core, the Battle of Jollof combines two cultural pillars—sports and food. Nigeria and Ghana will compete on the basketball court, and with the famed "Jollof rice" taking center stage in a friendly rivalry over who makes it best between Nigeria, Ghana, and Liberia.
3. BET’s Sponsorship and Partnership This year marks BET’s first time sponsoring the Battle of Jollof. Their involvement reflects the network’s commitment to amplifying African culture and fostering deeper connections across the diaspora. The sponsorship brings greater visibility to the event, enhancing its impact and reach.
4. A New Home in Brooklyn This year, the event moves to Brooklyn, home to a thriving African community. The new location offers double the capacity of last year’s venue, demonstrating the event’s growing popularity. Attendees can expect a bigger and more vibrant experience.
5. Taste the Culture, Conquer the Court: This Year’s Theme The 2024 edition of the Battle of Jollof embraces the theme “Taste the Culture, Conquer the Court” focusing on the power of food to bring people together. This theme celebrates the culinary traditions that connect the African diaspora, showcasing the richness of each nation’s heritage.
6. Expanded Competition with New Participants The food competition expands this year to include Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and Liberia, with Cameroon joining the contest for the first time. This expansion broadens the scope of the friendly rivalry and allows more countries to showcase their unique takes on the beloved Jollof rice with Tequila Don Julio and Crown Royal as the exclusive spirits sponsors of the event.
7. Exclusive Celebrity Dinner Event Before the main event, an exclusive dinner titled "Taste the Culture" will welcome influencers, celebrities, and sports enthusiasts. Notable invited attendees include Lupita Nyong'o, Rosario Dawson, and Michael Dapaah, who will join in celebrating the cultural achievements of the diaspora over a shared culinary experience.

The Battle of Jollof promises to be bigger and better than ever, bringing together food, culture, and community in a way that unites the diaspora and celebrates its diversity. Brooklyn, get ready—it's time to taste the culture!

Click here to get your tickets!