The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) in partnership with the Ghana Cocoa Board (Cocobod), the Cocoa Processing Company (CPC) has officially launched the 2025 edition of the National Chocolate Week, a flagship event aimed at promoting the consumption of Ghanaian chocolate and other cocoa-based products.
The launch, held at the GTA Head Office in Accra on Friday, 7th February 2025, was marked by a call for increased patronage of Ghana’s premium cocoa products under the theme: “Eat Chocolate, Stay Healthy, Grow Ghana”, with a sub-theme, “Chocolate for All: Taste, Share and Care.”
Speaking on behalf of GTA’s CEO, Mrs. Maame Efua Houadjeto, Deputy CEO (Operations) Ekow Sampson highlighted the significance of the celebration, which was instituted in 2005 to reposition Valentine’s Day as a period to promote the health benefits and economic importance of cocoa. Originally observed as National Chocolate Day, the initiative evolved into a week-long celebration through strong collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Cocoa Processing Company (CPC), and various chocolatiers.
Mr. Sampson emphasized that National Chocolate Week aligns with Ghana’s domestic tourism marketing campaigns, aiming to encourage Ghanaians to appreciate locally made products while reducing reliance on imported goods.
He noted that research underscores the immense health benefits of chocolate consumption, including its ability to lower blood pressure, enhance brain function, and reduce stress levels. He further urged the hospitality industry to incorporate chocolate-themed dishes and distribute complimentary chocolates to patrons on 14th February, fostering a sense of national pride and love.
The Deputy Director of Research and Development at COCOBOD, Michael Ekow Amoah, elaborated on ongoing initiatives to increase cocoa production and per capita consumption. While acknowledging recent strides in boosting local demand for chocolate and cocoa-based products, he stressed the need for further efforts to achieve sustainable growth.
“We need to look inward to appreciate the richness of Ghana’s cocoa and increase consumption of premium Ghanaian chocolate,” he remarked.
As part of the celebration, an exciting lineup of activities has been announced, including exhibitions, a street float, a quiz competition, and visits to religious institutions and cocoa-growing communities. Additionally, Director of Marketing, Betty Kobi who took participants through the programme list said, GTA’s regional offices across the country will actively participate in the festivities, by among others, visiting the pediatric units of regional hoispitals to interact and share chocolates to patients, ensuring nationwide engagement.
Ghana, renowned as the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, continues to champion value addition to its cocoa sector, positioning its premium chocolate brands for both local and international markets. The National Chocolate Week serves as a vital platform to deepen awareness, increase economic value and encourage greater appreciation for Ghana’s cherished cocoa heritage.
