In recognition of cocoa farmers worldwide on Valentine’s Day, which also coincides with Ghana’s National Chocolate Day, Dr. Kwamena Minta Nyarku, Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North, has acknowledged the significant contributions of cocoa farmers, particularly those in Ghana, and called for increased governmental support for the sector.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Friday, February 14, 2025, Dr. Nyarku, affectionately known as “Ragga,” highlighted the global rise in cocoa consumption and urged the nation to appreciate the efforts of cocoa farmers.
Drawing a comparison between Valentine’s Day celebrations in Ghana and the United States, he observed that, “In America, people share flowers, candies, and cards. Unfortunately, in Ghana, it has become less about the art of giving and more about fulfilling mandatory expectations.” He lamented that many people feel pressured to meet certain obligations on Valentine’s Day, which can create unnecessary strain.
He further noted that this societal expectation has led to problems in relationships, with many struggling to meet the perceived financial demands of the occasion. “Many relationships are breaking down because of Valentine’s Day celebrations. Valentine’s Day should be about the art of giving, not the art of taking,” Dr. Nyarku stressed.
Encouraging Parliament to lead by example, he suggested that lawmakers consider visiting the underprivileged as a way of embodying the true spirit of giving. “We can visit orphanages, hospitals, psychiatric institutions, and maternity homes—places where our acts of kindness would have the greatest impact. If we do that, we would give more than we take,” he concluded.
