The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) in the Ashanti Region marked this year’s Chocolate Day by sharing chocolates with children at the Pediatric Ward of the Maternal and Child Health Hospital-Pampaso in Kumasi.

This initiative, which has been ongoing since 2005, aligns with the Authority’s mission to promote cocoa consumption, particularly on Valentine’s Day, and to shift public focus from negative social behaviors associated with the occasion.

Ashanti regional Director of the authority, Frederick Adjei Rudolf, emphasized the importance of promoting cocoa, one of Ghana’s key agricultural exports.

He highlighted that Chocolate Day is an opportunity to showcase cocoa’s economic and nutritional value while reinforcing Ghana’s identity as a leading cocoa producer.

“The initiative serves to discourage certain behaviors on Valentine’s Day that do not reflect our values.For two decades, we have been committed to this cause, ensuring that cocoa remains at the heart of our national celebrations” he stated.

This year’s celebration was themed “Eat Chocolate, Stay Healthy, and Grow Ghana,” underscoring the health benefits of cocoa consumption.

A complementary sub-theme, “Take Chocolate and Share Among People,” encouraged communal sharing of chocolate as a way of unity and love.

Mr. Adjei further urged district and municipal assemblies, private businesses, hotels, and restaurants to actively participate in promoting cocoa and its derivatives.

He stressed that the GTA alone cannot drive this initiative, calling for collective efforts from stakeholders, including the media, to amplify the message.

“This event alone cannot promote cocoa. We need district assemblies, municipal bodies, private businesses, and the media to take part in this national agenda,” he asserted.

Deputy Director of Nursing Services, Rosemond Kusi Owusu-Ansah at the Maternal and Child Health Hospital expressed gratitude for the GTA’s gesture.

She highlighted the nutritional benefits of chocolate, emphasizing its essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to good health.

“Chocolate is a product of cocoa and it contains a lot of nutrients, and for you to choose our facility is a blessing to us. We are thankful for this gesture” she said.

The event not only brought joy to the children at the hospital but also reinforced the broader agenda of promoting cocoa as a valuable national resource.

Through such initiatives, the Ghana Tourism Authority continues to integrate tourism, agriculture, and public health awareness in meaningful ways.

As Ghana Month approaches in March, Mr. Adjei revealed that the Ghana Tourism Authority is expanding its focus beyond cocoa promotion.

The Authority has strategic plans to attract both local and international tourists to explore Ghana’s rich cultural and agricultural heritage.