The Sefwi Wiawso Municipal Assembly in the Western North Region has officially launched the Cocoa City Festival Experience in Wiawso, a unique celebration aimed at showcasing the pride and heritage of the Sefwi people as Ghana’s cocoa hub.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Sefwi Wiawso, Mr. Dominic Gyasi, and the staff of the municipal assembly, seeks to highlight the central role of cocoa in shaping the socio-economic and cultural identity of the Sefwi people.
According to the MCE, the festival represents more than just a celebration — it tells the living story of the people of Sefwi. For generations, cocoa has been the heartbeat and lifeline of their communities, contributing significantly to education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. He noted that when Ghana is mentioned on the global market, cocoa stands out as a symbol of pride, and the name Sefwi rises alongside it as a major contributor to Ghana’s status as the world’s second-largest cocoa producer.
The event’s launch emphasized that the Cocoa City Festival is not only about economic significance but also about preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Sefwi people. It serves as a reminder to the nation and the world that Sefwi remains the backbone of Ghana’s cocoa industry.
Nana Elluo Payin III, Chief of Sefwi Nsuosua and Kyedomhene of the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council, described the festival as a premier tourism and business event that celebrates the identity of Sefwi Wiawso as Ghana’s cocoa capital. He added that the multi-day experience will combine business forums, cultural showcases, youth empowerment programs, and tourism activities — positioning Sefwi Wiawso as a vibrant destination for investors, entrepreneurs, researchers, and travelers.
He further stressed that development and the preservation of cultural heritage are essential for maintaining identity, promoting social cohesion, and ensuring sustainable growth.
The Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Mr. Abeiku Aggrey Santana, commended the initiative, describing it as a visionary step that highlights the strong connection between cocoa, culture, and tourism. He emphasized that cocoa is not only Ghana’s economic backbone but also a cultural symbol that tells the story of resilience and heritage.
He also praised the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council and the Municipal Assembly for their foresight in preserving the rich cultural legacy of the Sefwi people and positioning the municipality as a unique tourism and investment destination.
The Cocoa City Festival Experience 2025 is scheduled to begin in October and will run for a week, featuring various activities designed to celebrate Sefwi’s cultural richness and its unmatched contribution to Ghana’s cocoa industry.
