Ghana, Rwanda ink deal to develop a chocolate plant

0
663
Ghana, Rwanda ink deal to develop a chocolate plant

The government of Rwanda, and Ghana have inked a deal that will see a chocolate production plant constructed in Rwanda.

The deal is one of the outcomes from the just-concluded week-long business trip to Ghana by a delegation of Rwandan officials and business operations from different sectors. The two countries seek to boost trade and investment ties

“Both Rwanda and Ghana committed to forging joint partnerships in tourism and trade to enhance exchange of best practices and capacity building,” said Chief Tourism Officer, Rwanda Development Board, (RDB), Belise Kariza.

Collaborative research

The chocolate production plant will be established in Kinigi, Musanze District. The two countries have agreed to undertake collaborative research on pyrethrum and Cocoa to ensure greater yields to the benefit of farming communities in Rwanda and Ghana. As part of the partnership, Ghana will supply processed organic cocoa in a form of cocoa nibs or cocoa liquor, from which the chocolate will be processed in Rwanda.

Rwanda in return will establish a formulation plant in Ghana for the production of organic pyrethrum-based pesticides for crop protection, veterinary use and public health. This will help cut transportation costs and bring affordable organic products closer to the Ghanaian farmers.

The two countries have also agreed to forge partnerships between tourism stakeholders to develop Rwanda – Ghana joint packages for international tourism. Other areas to explore include the creative art industry, travel and hospitality sector, education, culture and agriculture.