The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has inaugurated a shop in Sunyani to promote the consumption and patronage of cocoa products to increase awareness of the nutritional values and versatility of cocoa.
The inauguration of the shop, situated at the frontage of the Cocoa House building, was done to coincide with the commencement of this year’s chocolate week celebration and to provide consumers with the opportunity to purchase cocoa products at both wholesale and retail prices conveniently.
Director of Production at Cocoa Processing Company. Tema. Dr. Frank Asante, explained that the purpose of opening the shop in Sunyani was to enhance the retailing of cocoa products by ensuring proximity to consumers and guaranteeing product availability. He emphasised the importance of consuming cocoa beverages, particularly for breakfast, due to their significant nutritional benefits.
The Administrator of COCOBOD in Sunyani, Michael Asumanu, underscored the need for Ghanaians to make conscious efforts to increase their consumption of cocoa products. He highlighted the numerous health benefits associated with cocoa, citing its positive impact on skin health, blood circulation and potential benefits for hypertensive and diabetic patients.
Mr Asumanu stressed that by consuming more cocoa products, Ghanaians could contribute to reducing the country’s reliance on foreign markets for sale of the products.
He added that Ghana has been a major producer of cocoa but primarily exported it in raw form. However, by encouraging local consumption, the country’s economy could experience significant growth to boost the economic well being of the populace.
Source: GNA
