The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has reiterated that the establishment of the National Chocolate Day is to enhance the local consumption of chocolate and cocoa products.
This initiative, originally instituted by the Ministry of Tourism in 2005, aims to promote the health and nutritional benefits of cocoa, as well as using chocolate as an expression of love during Valentine’s Day.
Jones Nelson, from the Corporate Affairs Department of the GTA, explained the motivation behind this celebration in an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show on Friday February 14, 2025.
“It was instituted by the Ministry of Tourism in 2005 to increase the local consumption of chocolate, use chocolate as an expression of love during Valentine, and highlight the health and nutritional benefits of cocoa and other cocoa-based products. The idea is to use chocolate as a symbol of love and care,” Nelson stated.
Nelson further highlighted the collaboration with COCOBOD and the Cocoa Processing Company since 2001 to promote cocoa products. In 2021, the celebration was extended to a week-long event, featuring media engagement and visits to cocoa communities for activities such as “melting moments” and the chocolate experience.
“We go to schools in deprived areas and share chocolate with them. This year we’ve outlined a number of activities, and our regional offices are visiting the pediatric departments of every regional hospital to distribute some chocolate to them,” he added.
National Chocolate Day is expected to not only boost local chocolate consumption but also raise awareness about the importance of cocoa in Ghana’s economy and culture. By promoting the health benefits of cocoa and fostering a love for chocolate, the GTA hopes to create a lasting impact on the local market.
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