The much-awaited summit on the business of Chocolate dubbed 'The Chocolatarium Business Summit’ comes off on Monday, February 21, at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel.

Organised by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), the event also under the umbrella of Ghana CARES Obaatan Pa Programme, seeks to promote and support local businesses in the cocoa value chain amidst Covid-19 challenges beyond.

The discussions under the Summit are designed in line with the mission of the Ghana Cares Obaatan Pa Programme to support businesses and highlight the importance of value creation, promotion and funding of chocolate manufacturers.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Akwasi Agyeman speaking on the maiden edition of this event noted that this summit seeks to bring together stakeholders within the chocolate value chain to discuss ideas on value creation and funding for artisanal chocolate manufacturers.

“After a successful celebration of the 2nd edition of the National Chocolate Week, GTA is introducing the Chocolatarium Business Summit to highlight ways in which we can reap the economic benefits of chocolates while promoting its consumption.

"We will also explore ways to boost chocolate consumption in the hospitality sector. This summit promises to be edifying and insightful,” he said.

In his remarks, he acknowledged the support of the government's Cares Obaatan Pa Programme.

“GTA is appreciative of the support government is rolling out to ensure that businesses in the cocoa and chocolate sector are empowered to positively contribute to the economic transformation of the country.”

The Finance Ministry under which the Ghana CARES Obaatan Pa Programme operates, said the Chocolatarium Business Summit is an opportunity for the Ministry to reiterate its commitment to presenting policies and programmes that will boost local businesses and help the Ghanaian youth take advantage of business opportunities, in this case in the cocoa and chocolate sector.

The Chocolatarium, is in partnership with the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), GIPC, Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Ghana Exports Promotion Authority (GEPA), EXIM Bank and Cocoa Value Addition Artisans Association of Ghana (COVAAGH).

The event will be attended by high profile personalities such as the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dr Mohammed Awal; GEPA CEO, Dr Afua Asabea Asare; CEO of COCOBOD, Joseph Boahen-Aidoo; GEA CEO, Kosi Yankey-Ayeh, and CEO of GIPC, Yofi Grant.

Individuals and businesses interested in participating and exhibiting their products and services at the Chocolatarium Business Summit are encouraged to register by sending visiting the Authorities website for directions.