John Dumelo Launches Free Cocoa Drink Programme for Basic Schools in Ayawaso West Wuogon

Ferdinand  | Education Ghana | February 19 | John Dumelo Launches Free Cocoa Drink Programme for Basic Schools in Ayawaso West Wuogon

Pupils in public basic schools within Ayawaso West Wuogon are set to benefit from a new nutrition support initiative led by the Member of Parliament for the constituency, .

In a statement dated 19 February 2026, the MP announced that beginning 2 March 2026, all public basic school pupils from Class 1 to Class 4 will receive free Ghana-made cocoa drinks once every week until the end of the academic year.

Weekly Cocoa Distribution for Public School Pupils

The programme will cover all public basic schools in the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency. According to the statement, the initiative is designed to support child nutrition, improve school participation, and promote the consumption of locally produced cocoa products.

Cocoa, described in the statement as nutritionally rich, contains antioxidants, iron, and magnesium, nutrients believed to support cognitive development and sustained energy levels among growing children.

Supporting Local Industry

Beyond its nutritional purpose, the initiative is also positioned as an economic support measure. By sourcing exclusively Ghana-made cocoa products, the programme seeks to boost demand for local manufacturers and cocoa farmers.

Ghana remains one of the world’s leading cocoa producers, and increased domestic consumption aligns with ongoing national conversations about value addition and local processing.

Education and Attendance

The MP noted that providing regular nutritious drinks may help encourage consistent attendance and active participation in public schools. The initiative reflects a broader understanding that child health directly affects learning outcomes.

The statement further emphasized national pride, urging children to appreciate cocoa as one of Ghana’s most important natural resources.

Community Impact

The cocoa distribution programme is expected to run throughout the year, benefiting hundreds of pupils across the constituency.

Observers say such constituency-level interventions, when sustained, can complement national school feeding and child welfare programmes.

The Ayawaso West Wuogon initiative adds to growing efforts by public officials to integrate health, education, and local industry support within community development strategies.