Editorial
Let’s keep making Val’s/Chocolate Day more engaging for youth
Ghanaians have been eating chocolate and cocoa products since the beginning of time, both as children, youth or adults.
However,the choice to make February 14, which is Valentine’s Day, a Chocolate Day in Ghana has boosted the urge to consume more made-in-Ghana chocolate and cocoa-products.
Infact,it would be unfair to commend this outstanding initiative without acknowledging its initiators although Ghana is known for producing cocoa.
In collaboration with the Cocoa Processing Company of Ghana, the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) launched the activity in 2005.The late Jake Obetsebi Lamptey, who was the Minister of Tourism at the time, came up with the concept as part of the Ghana@50 celebrations.
In contrast to the past, when some of the youth engaged in promiscuity, Mr. Obetsebi-Lamptey will always be remembered for introducing Chocolate Day on Valentine’s Day, which has brought more dignity to the Day’s celebration.
It would also be appropriate to honour Tetteh Quarshie, a Ghanaian blacksmith who imported cocoa beans from the island of Fernando Po (now Bioko in Equatorial Guinea) to Ghana in 1898.
Since cocoa has historically contributed significantly to Ghana’s economic prosperity, it is wise to recognise the farmers who grow this esteemed product and turn it into the delicious treat that delights millions of people across the world.
More interestingly, Ghanaians and other citizens have made a conscious effort to share chocolate and cocoa productswith their loved ones on Valentine’s Day since the introduction of Chocolate Day in 2005. This has helped to promote Ghanaian chocolate to the international community.
Itis also wonderful that COCOBOD and GTA expanded the celebration from a single day to a week-long event in 2021, and it has been well-run ever since.
The Spectator is pleased to report that the GTA, in partnership with COCOBOD and the CocoaProcessing Company, has planned a variety of events to commemorate this year’s National Chocolate Week, which began on February 3rd and ended yesterday, February 14th, 2025.
Among the events were visits to churches, the Chief Imam, cocoa communities, exhibitions andspending time with schoolchildren. Other events include a durbar with stakeholders, a chocolate feast, a street float, regional involvement, and yesterday’s chocolate experience at the Kotoka International Airport.
With the theme “Eat Chocolate, Stay Healthy, Grow Ghana” and the sub-theme “Chocolate for all: taste, share, and care,” the events engaged the youth and increased awareness of the health advantages of chocolate consumption.
The Spectator suggests that the engaging, enjoyable, educative, and unforgettable activities be sustained and, if possible elevated. Let’s keep making Valentine’s/Chocolate Day more engaging for the youth.
Dear Editor,
I WRITE to draw the attention of NADMO and other related agencies to the recent prediction by the Ghana Meteorological Agency to expect a lot of rains this year, especially in the Southern sector of the country.
GMet issued the forecast to provide an early warning to protect lives and property.
Interestingly, the Southern sector happens to be one of the many trouble spots in the country when the rains start.
It predicted the season to start in March and continue until July or August with above-normal rainfall along the eastern coast and nearby inland areas, including Accra, Tema, Cape Coast, Saltpond, Asamankese, Akim Oda, Koforidua, and Kade.
Knowing the problems faced as a country, concerns have been raised in certain quarters about the aftermath flooding problems in low-lying areas.
These concerns are well placed because flooding has become an annual ritual associated with the season.
My appeal goes to NADMO as well as the district and metropolitan assemblies. They are responsible for activities before and after the season.
As we prepare, they must spearhead the campaign to desilt the drainages in order for water to flow freely.
The citizenry must also show some sense of responsibility by desisting from throwing rubbish into gutters to block the free flow of water.
Noah Musa,
Adabraka
Dear Editor,
I WOULD like to express my views on why some people abuse leaders on social media platforms.
In recent times, social media has become a powerful tool for communication and expression. Unfortunately, many people misuse this freedom by insulting and abusing leaders instead of engaging in constructive criticism.
One major reason for this behaviour is frustration. When citizens feel ignored, unemployed, or affected by poor policies, they sometimes turn their anger toward leaders online.
Another reason is anonymity. Social media allows users to hide behind fake names and profiles, which gives them the confidence to say things they would not dare say in public. This lack of accountability encourages abusive language and disrespectful comments.
Ignorance and misinformation also play a role. Some people abuse leaders based on false news or rumours without verifying facts. This leads to unnecessary attacks that can damage reputations and create tension in society.
While leaders should be held accountable, abuse and insults do not solve problems. Too many people are finding social media platforms as homes to hide and churn out untruths that goes a long way to damage the image and credibility of the victims.
Constructive criticism, dialogue, and lawful channels are better ways to express dissatisfaction. Citizens must remember that respect is essential for national unity and development.
I hope this letter will encourage people to use social media responsibly and promote respectful communication.
Eugene Ampiaw,
Takoradi
