In a show of solidarity with the people of Palestine, the government of Ghana has donated 40 metric tonnes of premium Ghana-made chocolate and cocoa products as humanitarian aid to victims of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The donation, described by the presidency as a “gesture of compassion,” was presented by President John Mahama to the Palestinian Ambassador to Ghana, Abdul Fattah Ahmed Khalil al-Sattari, during a brief ceremony at the Jubilee House in Accra.

President Mahama said the move is both symbolic and practical, aimed at offering comfort and nutrition to families enduring severe hardship in conflict zones.

“We’re gathered here today, not only to reaffirm our fraternal ties with Palestine, but to respond in a small yet heartfelt way to the humanitarian needs of the people of Gaza,” the President said.

“The images and stories emerging from the conflict zones, particularly the suffering of innocent civilians, especially women and children, are heartbreaking. They are a painful reminder that behind every headline and every statistic, there are human lives people who long for peace, dignity, and hope.”

He explained the decision to donate cocoa-based products was deliberate, citing the nutritional and symbolic value of cocoa to Ghana and its people.

“In this regard, the Government of Ghana is pleased to extend a humanitarian donation of about 40 metric tonnes of premier Ghana-made chocolate and cocoa-based products under the distinguished Golden Tree brand to the people of the State of Palestine,” President Mahama said.

“It is symbolic because cocoa is one of Ghana’s most treasured natural commodities. It represents a significant source of economic livelihood for millions of Ghanaian farmers and families and embodies our national values of resilience, warmth, and generosity.”

Beyond symbolism, the President highlighted the health benefits of cocoa as a superfood.

“It is practical because cocoa is a powerful superfood. It is rich in antioxidants and vitamins. It supports the immune system, promotes cardiovascular health and enhances brain function and emotional well-being,” he said.

“It is also a natural energy booster and a vital source of essential minerals, particularly from iron and magnesium, which are crucial for women and children’s health. Cocoa has also been found beneficial in the management of hypertension.”

He expressed hope that the donation would bring nourishment and a sense of care to families in Gaza.

“We sincerely hope that these cocoa products will provide comfort, nourishment, and a tangible expression of our solidarity to the families facing unimaginable hardship,” the President added.

President Mahama also used the occasion to commend the Palestinian community in Ghana for their contributions to national development, particularly their efforts in the education sector.

“We also take this opportunity to express our deepest appreciation to the Palestinian community here in Ghana. Your contribution to national development has not gone unnoticed notably your construction of a modern classroom block in underserved communities of Dramani Kope in the North Tongu constituency of the Volta Region and Yizeb Bisi in the Northern Region of Ghana.”

Receiving the items on behalf of his country, Palestinian Ambassador Abdul Fattah Khalil al-Sattari expressed deep gratitude and said the donation would make a meaningful impact.

“This donation will greatly impact the lives of children and women in Gaza, especially by boosting their nutrition and helping to curb the starvation being witnessed,” he said.