Former President John Agyekum Kufuor will address a global audience at the Africa Cocoa Finance & Investment Forum 2026 in London. The event takes place on May 6 at the London Stock Exchange. Mr. Kufuor will present a special address focusing on Africa's cocoa future. His vision aims to reposition the continent's cocoa sector as a key driver for industrialization and economic growth.
The forum's theme is "Africa Cocoa Vision 2050 – Historical Reflections and Future Pathways." Organizers expect Mr. Kufuor to share insights from his presidency and his background as a cocoa farmer. His address will connect Africa's cocoa legacy with future growth opportunities. The goal is to outline a forward-looking strategy for the sector.
Kufuor's presidency, from 2001 to 2009, saw significant growth in Ghana's cocoa production. Output increased from about 340,563 tonnes in the 2001/02 season to over 700,000 tonnes. This expansion was due to policies like the Mass Cocoa Spraying Programme and fertilizer support. Sector reforms also played a crucial role.
Organizers highlighted Kufuor's push for value addition in the cocoa sector. His administration encouraged global companies like Cargill and Barry Callebaut to invest. This initiative laid the groundwork for Ghana's modern cocoa processing industry. These reforms contributed to Ghana's record one million tonne harvest in the 2010/11 season.
The forum will feature discussions on attracting investment and strengthening value chains. It will also explore how Africa can compete more effectively on the global stage. Key speakers include Olasunkanmi Owoyemi of Sunbeth Global Concepts. Alex Assanvo from the Cote d’Ivoire-Ghana Cocoa Initiative will also participate. They will offer perspectives on financing and regional collaboration.
Further sessions will look at expanding beyond raw cocoa processing. These will examine opportunities in chocolate manufacturing and nutraceuticals. Industry leaders like Patricia Poku-Diaby of Plot Enterprises are expected to share strategies. Vishnu Kakra of Johnvents will also contribute insights.
A significant part of the forum will involve the introduction of an African Cocoa Exchange (AfCX). Michel Arrion, Executive Director of the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO), will present this concept. The AfCX aims to improve price transparency. It also seeks to strengthen Africa's influence in global cocoa trade.
The Africa Cocoa Finance & Investment Forum 2026 is designed as a long-term platform. It aims to mobilize finance and build partnerships for Africa's cocoa economy. The core problem it seeks to address is the gap between available investment capital and real opportunities on the ground.