The Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Ms. Ablah Dzifa Gomashie, has reiterated the government’s commitment to allocating resources to support the growth and promotion of the cocoa industry. She emphasised that the cocoa industry, particularly chocolate production, is a thriving sector with immense potential. Therefore, she stressed the importance of increased investment to capitalize on these opportunities, which will not only boost the industry but also create more job opportunities for the youth and contribute to economic growth.

“The government is committed to providing resources, training, and market access to help our chocolate industry flourish,” she stated.

Speaking at the climax of this year’s National Chocolate Week celebration at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra on Friday, Ms. Gomashie highlighted that the Black Star Experience initiative, a flagship program aimed at promoting the country’s cultural heritage, recognizes cocoa as a symbol of national pride and economic strength.

Organized by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), the celebration, which marked the 20th edition of the event, was held under the theme: ‘Eat Chocolate, Stay Healthy, Grow Ghana’ and the sub-theme: ‘Chocolate for All: Taste, Share and Care.’ The Minister noted that National Chocolate Day not only promotes the local chocolate industry but also showcases the richness of Ghanaian culture and hospitality to the world.“As we celebrate National Chocolate Day, we honour Tetteh Quashie, the Ghanaian farmer who introduced cocoa beans to Ghana from Fernando Po in the late 19th century. We also pay tribute to the farmers who cultivate this prestigious crop, transforming it into the sweet treat that brings joy to millions worldwide,” she said.Ms. Gomashie encouraged the public to participate in the Chocolate Experience events held across the country, to explore the rich flavors of regional chocolates and deepen their knowledge of cocoa.