Chef Nadia Nijimbere

Baobab Fare

Nadia Nijimbere is the co-owner of Baobab Fare, an acclaimed East African restaurant in Detroit, and a dedicated human rights activist who has championed the protection of vulnerable communities throughout her life.

Born and raised in Burundi, Nadia earned a degree in Contemporary Languages with a specialization in French. Before coming to the United States, she worked with organizations dedicated to protecting children’s rights and advocating for their safety and well-being. Her passion for justice and community empowerment shaped her path, eventually leading her to Detroit, where she would continue her mission through food, entrepreneurship, and advocacy.

In 2013, Nadia sought asylum at Freedom House Detroit, where she faced the challenge of starting over in a new country. Shortly after her arrival, she discovered she was pregnant with twins, beginning a journey of resilience and transformation. While learning English and adjusting to life in the U.S., she awaited the arrival of her husband, Hamissi Mamba, who joined her in 2015. Together, they worked to rebuild their family and create new opportunities in their adopted home.

Determined to give back to the city that embraced them, Nadia and Mamba launched Baobab Fare in April 2021 after winning Hatch Detroit in 2017. The restaurant quickly became a beacon of East African culture and cuisine, earning national recognition:
• 2021: Named Best New Restaurant in America (Eater).
• 2022: Named Best New Restaurant in Metro Detroit (Detroit Free Press), Best New Restaurant in America (Esquire Magazine).
• 2021 & 2023: Received the State of Michigan Award for contributions to the community.
• James Beard Awards:
o 2022 & 2023: Semifinalist for Best Chef: Great Lakes (with Hamissi Mamba).
o 2024: Finalist for Outstanding Restaurateur, a national honor.

Beyond Baobab Fare, Nadia has continued to uplift her community through new ventures. She co-founded Waka by Baobab Fare, a food truck serving East African street food, which will open as a brick-and-mortar location in Detroit’s Eastern Market in 2025. She also helped launch Soko, an East African market that collaborates with farmers, makers, and artists from Burundi and Detroit, providing them with opportunities to share their craft through specialty markets, retailers, and an online platform.

Through her activism, entrepreneurship, and cultural storytelling, Nadia continues to advocate for marginalized communities, particularly immigrants, refugees, and women entrepreneurs. Her journey—from fighting for children’s rights in Burundi to becoming one of Detroit’s most celebrated restaurateurs—is a testament to the power of resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to uplifting others.

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