Accra-Ghana, Aug 28, GNA – Mr Kobina Tahir Hammond, Minister of Trade and Industry, has inaugurated a $10 million state-of-the-art cocoa pulp processing factory to produce fruit juice for export.
The factory, operated by KOA Impact Ghana Limited and located in Akim Achiase in the Eastern Region, is expected to create 250 new jobs and help reduce on-farm food waste in the cocoa value chain through the upcycling process.
The Minister stated that the avenue would generate additional revenue and integrate new components into the food and beverage business, such as chocolate confectionery goods, ice cream, and drinks.
He said he was delighted with the company’s full-scale integration of technology into its operations and business dealings.
Mr Hammond stated that the government maintains that prosperity for all remains achievable through inclusive and sustainable industrial transformation, as well as ensuring the highest standards of food safety to ensure significant market access for brands produced completely or in part in Ghana.
He underlined the President’s commitment to a Ghana Beyond Aid agenda that will ensure the country leverages major investment to enhance manufacturing, notably in the agro-industry, allowing Ghana to trade competitively and chart a sustainable road out of Aid dependence.
The Minister stated that the establishment of KOA Impact Ghana Limited came at a time when the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) Agreement, in terms of lucrative commerce, was gaining steam.
He said he hoped that more businesses would take up the challenge to harness the opportunities under the AfCFTA.
The Minister was pleased that KOA Ghana Limited had implemented the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) system to ensure food safety and product quality standards.
