The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu Adjare, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to revamp Ghana’s cocoa sector through industrialization, value addition, and farmer welfare programs.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament to mark the 2025 National Chocolate Day on Friday, February 14, she outlined major initiatives to boost cocoa processing, enhance farmer support, and strengthen Ghana’s presence in the global chocolate market.
Citing market research, Hon. Ofosu Adjare revealed that the global chocolate industry was valued at USD 130.72 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 172.89 billion by 2030.
“This is a market that has eluded Ghana for too long. Our commitment to industrialization, research, and farmer support will ensure that Ghana claims its rightful place as a major player in the global chocolate industry,” she stressed.
Hon. Ofosu Adjare unveiled plans for rapid industrialization under the Rapid Industrialization for Jobs (RIJ) Initiative, aimed at increasing exports through value addition and processing.
She disclosed that the Ministry will roll out an Accelerated Export Development Programme to promote value addition for both domestic consumption and exports, which will include: the establishment of new cocoa processing factories in cocoa-growing regions; and the revival of defunct processing industries.
Ghana, she emphasized, must move beyond raw cocoa exports to processing high-value chocolate products for global markets.
Hon. Ofosu Adjare assured Ghanaians that the government, under His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, is determined to reposition the cocoa sector for sustainable growth.
She affirmed that the government’s vision is clear—to transform the cocoa industry through industrialization, job creation, and strategic investments, adding: “This National Chocolate Day should serve as a reminder that Ghana’s cocoa future is bright.”
The Minister paid tribute to Ghana’s cocoa farmers, processors, and industry stakeholders, acknowledging their indispensable role in the country’s economy.
“Earnings from the cocoa trade have clothed our children, built our schools, and fueled our progress. Cocoa is a symbol of Ghanaian resilience, ingenuity, and unity. We must embrace its value not only as an export commodity but as a foundation for industrial growth,” she stated.
As part of the government’s commitment to farmer welfare, Hon. Ofosu Adjare revealed a comprehensive plan to support cocoa farmers through price stabilization, pensions, healthcare, and education programs.
“The well-being of our cocoa farmers is paramount. This plan will eliminate child labor, enhance livelihood programs, and provide financial security through pension schemes and healthcare services.”
She disclosed that additional measures will include: Reintroducing free fertilizers, improved seedlings, and agro-inputs to boost yields; Enhancing pest surveillance and research through the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana; Promoting organic cocoa farming and combating illegal mining on cocoa farms; Establishing Cocoa Colleges and launching a ‘Youth in Cocoa Farming’ project; and Supporting women in cocoa farming through targeted programs.
The Minister also paid homage to Tetteh Quarshie, the pioneer who introduced cocoa to Ghana, stating that his legacy continues to drive economic development.
Hon. Ofosu Adjare encouraged Ghanaians to increase their consumption of locally made chocolates, emphasizing the health benefits of chocolate.
“Chocolate, like love, is universal—sweet, transformative, and rooted in the heart. Beyond its taste, research confirms that chocolate has significant health benefits,” she said.
She highlighted several benefits of cocoa consumption, including Heart health – Reducing the risk of stroke and coronary disease; Immune system balance – Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress; Diabetes prevention – Improving insulin efficiency; Brain function – Enhancing memory and cognitive skills; Athletic performance – Boosting circulation and oxygen efficiency; and Stress reduction – Lowering cortisol levels.
The Trade Minister urged schools to incorporate more cocoa-based beverages into students’ diets as an immune-boosting initiative.
