News
Consumption of cocoa products boosts immune system-Chief Pharmacist
Cocoa drinks and products can help boost the immune system, Chief Pharmacist at the Cocoa Clinic in Accra, Dr. Edward Amporful, has said .
He explained that taking cocoa drink could help reduce blood clots on the brains especially of COVID patients and promote longevity, adding “cocoa products are natural blood thinners and would help reduce weight and diabetes.”
Dr Amporful, who is chairman of the Cocoa Consumption Committee, made these revelations when he delivered a talk on ‘ why consume cocoa products’ at the opening of Cocoa Processing Company (CPC) Sales Depot at COCOBOD warehouse at Kejabil, in the Ahanta West District of the Western Region, on Thursday.
He indicated that cocoa, a good natural resource base for Ghana, had been a blessing over the years and, therefore, efforts must be made to utilise its potentials for health and longevity needs of the people.
Ghana, he noted, had in the past, pursued value addition programmes to cocoa products, but, it was not doing enough to boost consumption of the products.
Dr Amporful indicated that the European FoodSafety Authority had averaged at least 2.7 kilogrammes cocoa consumption per person dailybut regretted that, Ghana in its entirety was doing just about 50 grammes.
“Fifty grammes is not the way to go. At least 2.7 kilogrammes per person daily, according to European Food Safety Authority. That’s key. Cocoa consumption has a huge consequences for Africa to take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area(ACFTA) and increase daily consumption.” he added.
Cocoa products, the Chief Pharmacist mentioned, had vitamins, fats and minerals better than what coffee could provide for a person, noting that but in Ghana, people consumed coffee more than cocoa, a good natural product.”
“It’s a complete food for the morning when you wake up at least take a bar of chocolate and be ready for the day, that’s your breakfast. The beauty of cocoa is that you can add or blend with everything even with your Hausa Koko.” Dr Amporful stressed.
He told the gathering that research had shown that cocoa products could help reduce high bold pressure, stroke in the elderly, increase brain power as well as reduce blood clots and even malaria.
Ghana, he said, was one of the 11 countries reporting high malaria cases but had not focused on cocoa consumption as one important health solution to reduce the burden of the disease on the citizens.
“Even with erectile dysfunction from head to toe, cocoa has more satisfaction and it’s by far ahead of time. We need to do about 5kg daily per person, and we are doing just 50 grammes.” Dr Amporful stated
From Clement Adzei Boye, Kejabil
President John Dramani Mahama has held bilateral talks with the President of South Korea, Lee Jae Myung, reaffirming the strong ties and shared values that continue to define relations between Ghana and South Korea.
During the discussions, President Mahama highlighted the historic connection between the two nations, noting their common commitment to democracy, human rights, and a shared historical experience.
He emphasised the opportunities for deeper cooperation, stating that Ghana’s rich natural and human resources, combined with Korea’s technological expertise and innovation, present a strong foundation for a mutually beneficial partnership.
The President also underscored Ghana’s strategic role within the African market through the African Continental Free Trade Area, whose secretariat is headquartered in Accra, positioning the country as a gateway for production and exports into a market of over 1.4 billion people.
President Lee Jae Myung, in his remarks, described Ghana as a country that holds a special place in the hearts of many Koreans, highlighting decades of cooperation in areas such as maritime security, trade, and agriculture.
He also reflected on the longstanding cultural and economic connection symbolised by the popular “Ghana” chocolate brand made from Ghanaian cocoa, which has been enjoyed in Korea for over five decades.
Both leaders expressed optimism about expanding people-to-people exchanges, cultural engagement, and economic collaboration, with President Lee noting that President Mahama’s visit provides a timely opportunity to deepen practical cooperation that will directly benefit the citizens of both nations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been informed by the relevant authorities in the United Arab Emirates that two Ghanaian nationals sustained injuries following a drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport earlier today, March 11, 2026.
Against this backdrop, the Government of Ghana has strongly condemned any act that endangers civilian lives and critical infrastructure.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today, March 11, such incidents pose serious risks to public safety and underscore the importance of ensuring the protection of civilians and vital international transport hubs.
Ghana’s Ambassador in the United Arab Emirates has led a delegation of the Embassy in Abu Dhabi and Consulate in Dubai to visit the two injured Ghanaians in hospital.
Their injuries are not critical and are expected to fully recover soon.
“We therefore urge calm as we continue to extend consular assistance and collaborate closely with host authorities,” the statement added.
The Ministry has revealed that they are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to engage with the appropriate authorities as required.
The Government of Ghana expresses its concern over the incident and conveys its thoughts to the injured individuals and their families.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates the Government of Ghana’s commitment to the protection and welfare of Ghanaian citizens wherever they may be.
The Government of Ghana is actively supporting ongoing consultations within the UN to pass a resolution seeking a cessation of hostilities.
According to the Ministry they are offering the necessary leadership and coordination with Ghana’s diplomatic Missions and will provide updates on the matter as and when the need arises.
Government has reiterated its call for Nationals in the Gulf region to always exercise heightened vigilance and comply with directives from Ghanaian Embassies and local authorities.
