Chocolate Day In Ghana

Did you know Ghana is one of the world’s largest producers of cocoa? In Ghana, Valentine’s day is now synonymous with the broader National Chocolate Week, featuring activities that encourage the exchange of chocolate gifts.

National Chocolate Day in Ghana was instituted in 2005.  Initiated under the Ministry of Tourism, the idea was championed by then-Minister of Tourism, the late Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey, as part of efforts to boost local cocoa processing. Its primary purpose is to boost domestic consumption of local chocolate, promote tourism, and encourage healthier, productive ways to express love.

The first official celebration took place in 2007, marked by the presentation of chocolate products to the Osu Children’s Home. The initiative is spearheaded by the Ghana Tourism Authority in collaboration with the Cocoa Processing Company (CPC) and the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).

Valentine’s Day is widely recognized for its romantic connotations, with couples exchanging gifts, spending quality time together, and expressing affection. Beyond romantic love, the holiday also encourages expressing love and appreciation for friends, family members, and other significant people in one’s life.

Ancient Origins:
The holiday’s roots can be traced back to ancient Roman festivals like Lupercalia, which celebrated fertility.

The legend of Saint Valentine, a priest who defied Emperor Claudius’s ban on marriages during wartime, is a key part of the holiday’s history. Some believe he was executed for his actions, and is associated with acts of love and compassion.

While the commercial aspect of Valentine’s Day is prominent, the essence of the day lies in taking time to appreciate the people we care about and strengthen relationships.

Global Celebrations:
Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide, with various traditions and customs depending on the region.

Ghana:

While Ghana is the second-largest exporter of raw cocoa beans, most of it is processed and turned into chocolate in Europe and North America. Ghanaian cocoa is a primary ingredient for major global chocolate producers, with top importing countries including the Netherlands, Malaysia, and the United States. Key manufacturers using Ghana cocoa are located in Switzerland, France, Japan, and South Korea, where it is used to produce premium, industrial, and popular consumer chocolate brands. 

Local Ghanaian chocolate brands range from industrial giants to artisanal, bean-to-bar producers. An increasing amount of chocolate is being manufactured directly in Ghana by local brands like Midunu (my personal favourite), ’57 Chocolate and Fairafric.

Notable Local Ghanaian Chocolate Brands.

Golden Tree (Cocoa Processing Company): The most common brand, featuring products like Kingsbite, Akuafo, Coffee Choc, and Oranco.
Niche Cocoa Industry Ltd: A major producer of high-quality industrial bean-to-bar chocolate, including bars and spreads.
‘57 Chocolate: An artisanal brand creating luxury, bean-to-bar chocolate, often using Adinkra symbols for design.
Fairafric: A sustainable, organic brand that produces its chocolate entirely in Ghana (Suhum).
Midunu Chocolates: Artisanal, African-inspired chocolates created by chef Selassie Atadinka.
Chocoluv: A woman-owned brand producing handmade, artisanal chocolate treats.
Ohene Cocoa: Specializes in cocoa-based products, available in select spots in Accra.
De’Laugh Chocolates: Produced by Delfi Ventures, offering dark, milk, and sugar-free options.
Kabi Chocolate: A brand focused on handmade, artisanal chocolate.
Mansa Gold: A locally produced brand available in the Ghanaian market.

Along with Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana dictates global cocoa prices and supply, with its beans renowned for high quality. Ghana is also fostering “chocolate diplomacy,” aiming to improve its global standing by promoting its own, higher-value chocolate brands. So the next time you celebrate Valentine, don’t forget chocolates. Contact Lotus Gallery on WhatsApp for curated options to suit your budget.