The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has reaffirmed its commitment to increasing local chocolate consumption through the National Chocolate Day initiative, which aligns with efforts to highlight the health benefits and economic importance of cocoa.
Originally introduced by the Ministry of Tourism in 2005, National Chocolate Day was established to encourage Ghanaians to embrace cocoa-based products while redefining Valentine’s Day as a celebration of Ghana’s rich cocoa heritage.
Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Friday, February 14, 2025, Jones Nelson of GTA’s Corporate Affairs Department emphasized the broader vision behind the initiative.
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“The idea is to increase local consumption of chocolate, promote it as an expression of love during Valentine’s Day, and highlight the health benefits of cocoa,” Nelson explained.
The GTA has collaborated with COCOBOD and the Cocoa Processing Company since 2001 to raise awareness of Ghana’s cocoa industry.
In 2021, the celebration was expanded into a week-long event featuring media campaigns and outreach programs to cocoa-growing communities.
This year’s activities include distributing chocolate to students in underserved schools and visiting pediatric wards in regional hospitals to spread joy among children.
By promoting National Chocolate Day, the GTA aims to deepen appreciation for Ghana’s cocoa industry, increase domestic consumption, and enhance global recognition of Ghanaian chocolate products.
